The snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus) is a popular choice for gardeners, adding colorful, vertical interest to garden beds. As garden spaces overlap with natural wildlife habitats, a frequent concern is whether these ornamental plants attract deer. The general consensus is that snapdragons are typically avoided by deer, placing them among reliable options for landscaping in areas with moderate deer activity.
Snapdragon’s Resistance Rating
Snapdragons are classified as deer-resistant due to physical and chemical defenses that make them unappealing to browsing deer. The foliage contains glandular hairs, or trichomes, which create a fuzzy texture and an unpleasant mouthfeel that deer generally dislike. Additionally, the plant contains secondary compounds, such as iridoid glycosides, which impart a bitter taste to the leaves. Deer avoid these strong flavors, which often signal low nutritional value or potential toxicity. Organizations like Rutgers University rank snapdragons in the “seldom severely damaged” category, though “resistant” does not mean completely immune to browsing.
Factors Affecting Deer Feeding Habits
While snapdragons deter most deer, environmental and population pressures can override these preferences. Extreme hunger is the primary reason a deer consumes a resistant plant, especially during drought or deep snow when preferred food sources are scarce. When the natural diet is unavailable, a bitter, textured plant becomes a viable option for survival. High localized deer population density also increases competition for palatable vegetation, leading animals to broaden their diet. Furthermore, deer may sample younger snapdragon plants with tender, newly emerged growth, sometimes causing significant damage before moving on.
Mitigation Strategies for Hungry Deer
Gardeners dealing with high deer pressure can combine resistant plants like snapdragons with direct intervention to reduce damage. Physical barriers, such as mesh netting or fencing, are effective non-plant solutions that can be temporarily installed around vulnerable areas. Fencing should be at least eight feet high to prevent jumping, or angled outward to create a three-dimensional barrier. Commercial deer repellents are categorized as either taste-based or scent-based. Taste-based repellents, containing ingredients like egg solids or capsaicin, must be applied directly to the foliage. Scent-based repellents signal danger through odor, though their effectiveness may decrease in cold weather. Strategic placement, such as situating snapdragons near high-traffic areas, utilizes human activity to discourage browsing.