Herb: Snapdragon


Latin name: Antirrhinum majus


Family: Scrophulariaceae (Figwort Family)



Medicinal use of Snapdragon:

The leaves and flowers are antiphlogistic, bitter, resolvent and stimulant. They have been employed in poultices on tumours and ulcers. It is effective in the treatment of all kinds of inflammation and is also used on haemorrhoids. The plant is harvested in the summer when in flower and is dried for later use.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Perennial


Height:
100 cm
(3 1/4 foot)

Flowering:
July to
September

Habitat of the herb:

Old walls, rocks and dry places.

Edible parts of Snapdragon:

An oil that is little inferior to olive oil is said to be obtained from the seeds. The report also says that the plant has been cultivated in Russia for this purpose. The seeds are very small and I wonder about the authenticity of this report.

Other uses of the herb:

A green dye is obtained from the flowers, it does not require a mordant. Dark green and gold can also be obtained if a mordant is used.

Propagation of Snapdragon:

Seed - surface sow March in a greenhouse. The seed usually germinates in 10 - 21 days at 18°C. Cool nights assist germination. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. The seed can also be sown in situ in July/August and will produce larger and more floriferous plants the following summer. Cuttings of half-ripe wood in September in a cold frame.

Cultivation of the herb:

Old walls, rocks and dry places.

Known hazards of Antirrhinum majus:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.