Ornamental
Black Prince Snapdragon is a stunning heirloom variety of Antirrhinum majus that commands attention with its nearly black crimson flowers and deep bronze foliage. This tender perennial reaches 18 inches tall and blooms continuously from spring through fall, creating dramatic contrast when planted alongside lighter-colored companions. Seeds sprout in 7-14 days and reach full bloom in 84-98 days, thriving in full sun and moderate water. Deer leave it alone, and pollinators flock to its tubular flowers, while the edible blooms add an unexpected element to the garden.
Full Sun
Moderate
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18in H x 10in W
Annual
Moderate
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The dark, dramatic coloring of Black Prince sets it apart in any garden setting. Its very dark crimson flowers paired with bronze foliage create a moody elegance that few snapdragon varieties achieve, especially when positioned against bright yellows or whites. The flowers attract pollinators throughout a long season spanning nine months, and the fact that these blooms are edible adds surprising versatility to a purely ornamental showstopper.
Black Prince Snapdragon serves primarily as an ornamental flower, valued for its deep crimson blooms and striking bronze foliage that create bold visual impact in garden beds and borders. The flowers are edible and can be used as garnish for culinary presentations, adding an unexpected dramatic element to plates. Its extended bloom season from spring through fall makes it valuable for sustained color in cut flower arrangements.
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before your last spring frost. Chill seeds for 2 days in the refrigerator before sowing. Sow thinly on the surface of a seed-starting mix with added vermiculite, lightly pressing seeds in without covering them, as they require light to germinate. Maintain a temperature around 60-70°F and water only from below by setting containers in a tray to prevent fungal problems. Expect sprouts in 5-14 days.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last spring frost when soil can be worked and daytime temperatures consistently reach 60°F or warmer. Harden off plants gradually over 7-10 days by exposing them to increasing amounts of outdoor light and wind. Space transplants 6 inches apart in full sun. Black Prince is frost-tender, so do not plant outdoors until all frost danger has passed.
Direct sow in spring as soon as soil can be worked, or in late fall in mild climates. Barely cover seeds or sow on the surface and lightly press in. Thin seedlings to 6 inches apart once they develop true leaves.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout the growing season to encourage continued blooming from spring through fall. For edible flowers, harvest blooms when fully open and vibrant in color, pinching them off at the base of the flower stem. Use fresh immediately or store briefly in a cool location.
Pinch back young seedlings early in their growth to encourage bushier, more compact plants with increased branching and flower production.
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