Antirrhinum majus 'Madame Butterfly'
Antirrhinum majus ‘Madame Butterfly’ is an azalea-type F1 series with fully double, open-faced blooms. It stands out for ruffled petals that create a full spike and a different look from classic snapdragons. Plants perform best in cool spring weather and in mild fall conditions. Growth is suitable for outdoor field cuts and protected culture. Stems are long enough for bouquets when harvested at one third open. This series is often scheduled like Group 3 to 4 main-season snaps.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: F1 series; azalea-type double; Group ~3-4 timing
- Height × spread: 24-30 in (60-75 cm) × 14-16 in (35-40 cm)
- Bloom window: spring to early summer; fall in cool climates
- Color & flower form: mix; open-faced double azalea type
- Fragrance: 1 trace
- USDA hardiness: grown as annual in most of North America; short-lived perennial in zones 7-10
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Awards/registration: All-America Selections winner noted for the series
- Cut-flower notes: long stems; typical vase life 7-10 days
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Double, non-snapping petals give a fuller spike than standard types.
- Comparable timing to main-season Group 3 to 4 snaps.
- Often noted to hold longer in the vase due to reduced pollination.
- Adaptable to field and tunnel production.
Strengths
- Full, ruffled spikes for event work and bouquets.
- Useful color range across the series.
- Performs in cool seasons outdoors or under cover.
Care in one minute
- Site: sun to light shade in warming climates.
- Soil and pH: well-drained loam; garden guidance trends near neutral; production guidance 5.5 to 5.8 pH.
- Water: keep evenly moist and water early in the day.
- Feeding: steady, moderate feed via nitrate-based fertilizer.
- Pinch and support: pinch once after transplant; net for straight stems; deadhead to extend bloom.
Watch‑outs
- Tall stems benefit from support in wind.
- Susceptible to rust and botrytis in wet periods.
- Heat above mid-summer norms can slow flowering.
Best uses (tags)
- cutting
- borders
- cool-season
- event work
Provenance note
A long-running double snapdragon series widely sold for cut-flower use; culture guides are published by Syngenta Flowers.
References
- Syngenta Flowers – Madame Butterfly culture guide
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox – Antirrhinum majus
- ASPCA – Common Snapdragon (non-toxic)
- Floret Library – Madame Butterfly mix (pollination note)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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