Avignon Apricot II is an F1 hybrid snapdragon bred for reliable performance in spring and fall production, prized by both florists and home gardeners for its warm, glowing apricot-toned blooms. This compact variety reaches maturity in 100 to 110 days and thrives in partial shade across hardiness zones 10 and 11, though it's half-hardy and can handle cooler conditions with protection. The flowers work beautifully in bouquets, and the petals are edible, making this an unexpectedly versatile plant that combines ornamental appeal with culinary possibility.
Partial Shade
Moderate
10-11
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Moderate
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The apricot coloring in this snapdragon is distinctive and warm, standing out in the spring and fall garden when most other flowers have faded or gone dormant. Because it's been bred as a pelleted seed, germination is more reliable and sowing is faster than with traditional seed, saving you precious weeks during transplant season. The compact growth habit means it slots seamlessly into containers, borders, or cutting beds without sprawling, while the edible flowers add an unexpected dimension for gardeners who want to harvest and enjoy their ornamentals on the plate.
Avignon Apricot II excels as a cut flower, delivering reliable stems for spring and fall bouquets when peak bloom season aligns with cooler temperatures. The edible petals work as a delicate garnish on salads, desserts, or cocktails, adding both visual warmth and a mild, slightly peppery snap to composed dishes. Because the variety is compact and bred for controlled production, it also performs well in container gardens where you can enjoy both the visual display and the option to harvest flowers fresh.
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Surface-sow seeds into 128-cell flats or preferred seedling containers 8 to 10 weeks before transplanting outdoors. Light is required for germination; cover seeds just enough to hold them in place, or use a fine layer of vermiculite to maintain moisture and prevent algae growth without burying the seed. Keep temperatures between 65 and 75°F. Bottom water or mist lightly to avoid displacing seeds with water pressure. Now available as pelleted seed, which simplifies handling and improves germination reliability.
Transplant seedlings to cell packs once they develop true leaves. Harden off seedlings gradually over 7 to 10 days before moving them to their final outdoor location. Plant out after the risk of hard frost has passed, spacing plants 4 inches apart. In zones 10 and 11, you have more flexibility with timing; in cooler regions, wait until soil temperatures are reliably above 50°F.
For cut flowers, harvest stems in the early morning when blooms are fully open but still fresh. Cut just above a leaf node to encourage continued flowering lower on the stem. For edible petals, pinch or snip individual flowers as needed, harvesting early in the day for best texture and flavor. The petals are most tender and flavorful when the flowers are at peak bloom.
Pinching is recommended if you want branching and fuller plants with more flowering stems. Remove the top 1 to 2 inches of growth when seedlings are 3 to 4 inches tall, which will encourage the plant to branch sideways rather than shoot straight up. If you're growing for cut flowers, deadhead spent blooms to extend flowering.
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