Partial Shade
Easy care
Moderate watering
Half-hardy
H7-H3
RHS hardiness
-20°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
50cm | Max | 80cm |
10cm | Min | 1cm |
3 years to reach maturity
Flowering
spring
summer
autumn
winter
This plant has a mild fragrance
More images of Snowdrop
Snowdrop Overview
Galanthus nivalis is a perennial species that grows to around 15cm tall, producing narrowly strap-shaped grey-green leaves and solitary, white, nodding, scented white flowers which measure around 2.5cm long. These are attractively marked with green on the inner petals at the tips. This species will grow about 10cm tall, the leaves are blue-green and upright. The flowers are bell-shaped, scented and about 25mm wide. This plant is often found in the wild in Northern Europe. The common snowdrop is an attractive first spring flower, even flowering through the snow. It can form large carpets of pretty white and green flowers, spreading a lovely scent. These are often an initial food source for bees after the winter. The generic name 'Galanthus' comes from the Greek 'gála' meaning 'milk', and 'ánthos' meaning 'flower'. The name 'nivalis' means 'of the snow', referring to the early flowering time. This species has earnt a Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Award of Garden Merit. It is also part of the RHS “Plants for Pollinators” initiative to showcase plants which support pollinator populations by providing ample amounts of nectar and/ or pollen. A great choice for encouraging pollinating insect wildlife into your garden!
Common problems with Snowdrop
May be attacked by narcissus bulb fly and slugs. May be affected by grey mould.
Snowdrop Companion Plants
Plant with other spring bulbs and annuals.
How to harvest Snowdrop
Generally not harvested but can be taken for floral arrangements
How to propagate Snowdrop
Division
Carefully divide the clumps of bulbs when in full growth (in the green), or when the plant is dormant - immediately after the foliage has withered. Plant where wanted 2-3cm deep immediately after.
Special features of Snowdrop
Winter colour
Lovely white flowers.
Attractive flowers
Flowers are white, with a green spot on inner tepal.
Other uses of Snowdrop
This low maintenance perennial can be planted in beds and borders under deciduous trees or shrubs or in pots and containers for late winter displays. It can be naturalised through grass in wildflower areas.
Ornamental
Grown in gardens and pots for their early flowers.
