Troubleshooting
Snapdragon 'Madame Butterfly' problems — and how to fix them
Snapdragon 'Madame Butterfly' (Antirrhinum majus 'Madame Butterfly') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Snapdragon rust
Rusty pustules under the leaves in warm, humid spells. Improve airflow, water at the base, remove infected foliage and grow resistant types.
Top-heavy spikes
Dense double flowers make stems heavy and prone to flopping. Pinch young plants and net or stake tall plantings, especially for cutting.
Root rot
Soggy soil rots the crown and roots. Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering.
Aphids
Colonise tender new shoots and buds. Wash off with water or treat promptly to protect the developing spikes.
Prevent snapdragon 'madame butterfly' problems before they start
Most snapdragon 'madame butterfly' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common snapdragon problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Snapdragon 'Madame Butterfly' watering schedule
- Snapdragon 'Madame Butterfly' light requirements
- Best soil mix for snapdragon 'madame butterfly'
- Snapdragon 'Madame Butterfly' temperature & humidity
- Full snapdragon 'madame butterfly' care guide
Looking for snapdragon 'madame butterfly' in general rather than its problems? Read the full snapdragon 'madame butterfly' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Snapdragon 'Madame Butterfly' problems — FAQ
Why is my snapdragon 'madame butterfly' snapdragon rust?
Rusty pustules under the leaves in warm, humid spells. Improve airflow, water at the base, remove infected foliage and grow resistant types.
Why is my snapdragon 'madame butterfly' top-heavy spikes?
Dense double flowers make stems heavy and prone to flopping. Pinch young plants and net or stake tall plantings, especially for cutting.
Why is my snapdragon 'madame butterfly' root rot?
Soggy soil rots the crown and roots. Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering.
Why is my snapdragon 'madame butterfly' aphids?
Colonise tender new shoots and buds. Wash off with water or treat promptly to protect the developing spikes.