Snowdrops

Snowdrop

Botanical name: Galanthus

Common name: Snowdrop

 

Heralds of spring, these little bulbs are among the first plants to flower in the new year. Planted in generous drifts, they are sturdier than they look, even pushing up their heads above a carpet of snow.

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Looks

Sheathed in strappy, often arching, bright green or greyish leaves, thin stems dangle bell-like white flowers, outer petals flaring to reveal shorter inner ones touched with green. Some have double flowers.

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Likes

 Snowdrops will grow in most soil types, apart from permanently wet soil, preferably in partial shade – around deciduous trees and shrubs is ideal.

 

Dislikes

These plants dislike very dry, sandy soils, especially in full sun that dries out around the bulbs out in summer.

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Did you know?

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• Besides the familiar early snowdrops, look out for Galanthus reginae-olgae, which flowers in autumn. It prefers a sunny position.

• Rare Snowdrop bulbs can change hands for many thousands of pounds!
  With thanks to RHS