Origin
Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p. is native to North America, particularly found in California and Baja California.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the intermediate snapdragon due to its hybrids between Antirrhinum coulterianum and Antirrhinum vexillo-calyculatum subsp. Purpureum. Its scientific name is derived from the Greek words "anti" meaning like, and "rhin" meaning nose, referring to the flower's snout-like shape.
Uses
The intermediate snapdragon has no significant economic uses but is widely grown as an ornamental plant. The plant's flowers are used in floral arrangements, and they attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds, enhancing biodiversity.
General Appearance
The intermediate snapdragon is a trailing perennial that grows up to 3 feet long, with stems that are purple, erect and branched. The leaves are green and hairy, ovate, and toothed, measuring about 1-2 inches long. The flowers, which bloom from spring to summer, are snapdragon-like, with a hood-like upper lip and a pouch or jaw-like lower lip, measuring about 1 inch long. The flowers are pink, purple, or white, and they grow in clusters. The fruit is a capsule that contains seeds, with each plant producing about 100 seeds.
Light Requirements
Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p. prefers full sun to light shade. It can tolerate some shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. However, too much shade can result in weak growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to a Mediterranean climate and prefers moderate temperatures. It can tolerate a range of temperatures, from lows of 10°C to highs of 30°C, but it grows best at temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. Frost can damage the plant, so it is best to protect it during cold periods.
Soil Requirements
This plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is optimal, with a range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged or saturated. Adding compost or other organic matter to the soil can help improve its texture and fertility.
Cultivation of Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p.
Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p. plants grow best in areas with full sun exposure and well-draining soil. The soil's pH should be around 6.0 to 6.5, as a higher or lower value may hinder plant growth and development.
When planting, it is best to do it in the spring or early fall after the last frost has passed. Plant the seeds approximately 1 cm deep and 10 cm apart. You can expect the plant to grow up to a height of 60 cm and spread up to 30 cm.
Watering Needs
Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p. plants require moderate watering. When young, they need enough water to moisten the soil without leaving it waterlogged. However, when mature, they can tolerate occasional dry soil conditions. Water the plant once a week or once every two weeks, depending on the weather conditions and soil moisture content.
Fertilization
To maintain the plant's growth and keep it healthy, you need to fertilize it occasionally. A balanced fertilizer applied in the spring and summer can help boost the plant's growth and flower production. When applying the fertilizer, follow the manufacturer's recommended dosage.
Pruning
Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p. plants require minimal pruning. However, removing the spent flowers can stimulate new growth and encourage additional flowering. Prune the plant by cutting back the stem, just behind the spent flowers, or deadhead the plant.
Additionally, trimming the top of the stem can help produce a bushier and fuller-looking plant. Cut back the top growth of the plant by no more than a third of its height.
Propagation of Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p.
There are three main methods for propagating Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p.: by seeds, by stem cuttings, and by division.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most cost-effective way to propagate Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p. is from seeds. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil in the spring or started indoors in the winter and transplanted outdoors in the spring. The seeds need to be covered lightly with soil and kept moist to encourage germination. They usually take about 10-14 days to germinate. Once the seedlings are established and have developed their second set of true leaves, they can be thinned out and transplanted to their final location.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Another way to propagate Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p. is by stem cuttings. This method is best done in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Take a 3- to 4-inch cutting from a healthy stem and remove the leaves from the bottom half. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a warm, bright location. The cutting should root in about 3-4 weeks and can be transplanted to its final location after it has developed a good root system.
Propagation by Division
If you already have an established Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p. plant, you can propagate it by division. This method is best done in the fall or early spring when the plant is dormant. Dig up the entire plant and gently separate the roots into smaller sections, making sure each section has a good root system and some leaves. Replant the sections in their final location and water well. The divided plants will develop new growth in the coming months.
Disease Management
Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p., commonly known as the intermediate snapdragon, can suffer from various diseases that can hamper its growth and development. Some common diseases that might affect the plant are:
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease causes small, circular lesions on the leaves, which can coalesce to form larger spots. It can spread rapidly and weaken the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead irrigation to prevent water from collecting on the leaves.
- Botrytis blight: This disease causes fuzzy, gray mold on flowers, stems, and leaves. It thrives in damp conditions and spreads through spores. To manage this disease, remove any infected plant material and improve air circulation by spacing the plants properly.
- Verticillium wilt: This disease causes yellowing and wilting of leaves and eventually the whole plant. It can remain in the soil for years and spreads through infected soil or plant material. To manage this disease, avoid planting Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p. in soil that has previously been infected with Verticillium wilt.
Pest Management
Antirrhinum vexillocalyculatum Kellogg ssp. intermedium D. Thompson p.p. can also attract various pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some common pests that might affect the plant are:
- Aphids: These tiny, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. They can be managed by washing them off with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: These tiny, light-colored insects can cause distorted and discolored flowers and leaves. They can be managed by removing any infected plant material and using sticky traps to monitor their presence.
- Spider mites: These pests are too small to see, but they can cause a stippled appearance on leaves and weaken the plant. They thrive in dry conditions and can be managed by misting the leaves with water or using insecticidal soap.
Regular monitoring of the plant and prompt action if any disease or pest is detected can help manage the plant's health and ensure its proper growth and development.
