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Snapdragon Maryland Pink Bicolor
Antirrhinum majus 'Maryland Pink Bicolor'
flowerMaryland Pink Bicolor is an ornamental snapdragon cultivar featuring tall spikes of distinctive pink and white bicolored flowers. This variety is prized for its dramatic two-tone blooms and excellent performance in cool-season gardens and cut flower arrangements. It belongs to the tall snapdragon class, reaching 24-36 inches in height.
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Cool-season annual thriving in zones 3-10; performs best in regions with mild summers
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Growth Stages
Germination
7-14 daysSeeds sprout and develop cotyledons; seedlings remain low and compact with true leaves beginning to emerge
Maintain warm, moist soil (65-75°F); provide bright light immediately after sprouting; keep humidity moderate; avoid damping-off by ensuring good air circulation
Seedling & Transplant
3-4 weeksYoung plants develop 2-4 true leaves; stems strengthen and thicken; ready for potting up or transplanting to larger containers
Provide 12-16 hours of bright light daily; fertilize weekly with dilute balanced fertilizer; pinch seedlings at 2-3 leaf stage to encourage branching; maintain cool temperatures (60-70°F) to prevent legginess
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeks after transplantingPlant develops multiple stems and dense foliage; height increases rapidly with characteristic linear leaves; no flowers yet visible
Harden off seedlings before transplanting outdoors by gradually exposing to direct sun and wind; space properly for good air circulation; provide support stakes as plants grow tall; maintain consistent moisture and moderate fertilization
Flowering & Bloom
6-12 weeks or until frostTall flower spikes emerge along stems bearing stacked pink and white bicolored tubular flowers; flowers bloom from base to tip of spike over several weeks
Deadhead spent flowers below the next flower bud cluster to extend blooming; stake tall varieties to prevent wind damage; reduce nitrogen fertilizer to promote more flowers over foliage; maintain consistent moisture; watch for powdery mildew in humid conditions
Senescence & End of Season
2-4 weeks until plant declinesFlowers fade and blooms diminish as temperatures drop or heat increases; foliage may discolor; plant deteriorates as it reaches end of annual life cycle
Continue deadheading to extend bloom as long as possible; reduce watering; stop fertilizing; collect seeds if desired before pulling plants; snapdragons typically end after frost or intense heat
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water jet to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs
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Increase humidity; spray undersides of leaves with water; apply miticide if severe; ensure good air circulation
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Use sticky yellow traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; remove heavily infested leaves
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Improve air circulation; water at soil level only; remove infected leaves promptly; apply sulfur or fungicide if needed
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide with sulfur or potassium bicarbonate; space plants adequately
Uses
Edible Flower Garnish
CulinarySnapdragon petals are mildly edible and add visual appeal to salads, desserts, and beverage presentations. They have a slightly grassy, delicate flavor and contribute ornamental value to gourmet dishes. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
CraftMaryland Pink Bicolor snapdragons are exceptional cut flowers with tall, sturdy spikes ideal for formal bouquets, wedding arrangements, and commercial floristry. Their height and color make them a designer favorite for creating dramatic vertical interest. [source]
Garden Color & Vertical Interest
HouseholdThese tall snapdragons serve as excellent backdrop plants or focal points in cottage gardens, borders, and mixed perennial beds. The pink and white bicolor blooms create striking color combinations with complementary plants. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeSnapdragon flowers attract bees and other pollinators seeking nectar and pollen. Planting them supports local pollinator populations and contributes to garden ecosystem health. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalHistorically, snapdragons have been used in traditional herbalism for various purposes, though modern clinical evidence is limited. The plant contains compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut snapdragon spikes when 1/3 to 1/2 of the flowers along the spike have opened for longest vase life (7-10 days). Cut in early morning when stems are fully hydrated. Remove lower leaves that would sit below the waterline. Change water every 2-3 days and re-cut stems at an angle. Deadhead spent flowers on garden plants by pinching or cutting just below the faded flower cluster to encourage more blooms from lateral shoots.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Snapdragon seed pods resemble tiny skulls when dried, leading to the plant being called 'skull flower' or 'monkey face' in some regions, and making them popular in Gothic garden designs.
- 🌱 The flower's mouth-like structure opens and closes when squeezed gently on the sides, providing pollinator access and earning the name 'snap' dragon from the snapping action.
- 🌱 Snapdragons are cool-season annuals that thrive in spring and fall, and they can be overwintered in mild climates (zones 9-10) to bloom again the following year, acting as short-lived perennials.
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