The botanical name for Snapdragon is Antirrhinum
Majus.  It originated in the Mediterranean
region of France and Spain more than 400 years
ago.  It is now one of the most popular flowers
around.  The flowers sit in graduated clusters atop a spike that is between 8 and 12 inches in length and
along a stem that can grow as long as 45 inches. 
Snapdragons are available in shades of red, orange, lavender, pink, salmon and white.  They have no scent.

Because of their abundance of color and their
vertical shape, Snapdragons are extremely useful
in vase arrangements.  These flowers are readily
available in May and June and then again in late
summer until the end of October.  Snapdragons can
also be found in limited supply in late winter and early spring.  Properly cared for, they can last about a week.

Note of warning:  these flowers require sufficient
water at all times.  They are also extremely sensitive
to ethylene gas and should be kept away from fruits
and vegetables on food table displays.  If kept too
close, they will drop their buds on the table.