Snowdrop
Galanthus nivalis
Candlemas Bells, Candlemas Lily, Common Bells, Common Snowdrop, Fair Maids Of February, Little Sister Of The Snows, Milky Snowdrop, Purification Flower
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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. 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!
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Planning
Difficulty
Easy
Flowering time
Spring, Winter
Fruiting time
Summer
Harvesting
Generally not harvested but can be taken for floral arrangements
Propagation
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
Attractive flowers
Winter colour
Special features
Origin
Eurasia.
Natural climate
Temperate
Environment
Light
Partial Sun
Soil moisture
Moist
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil PH preference
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Frost hardiness
Hardy
Uses
Ornamental
Grown in gardens and pots for their early flowers.
Notes
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.
Personality
Family
Amaryllidaceae
Flower colour
White, with a green spot on inner tepal., White, Green
Scent
Mild
Problems
May be attacked by narcissus bulb fly and slugs. May be affected by grey mould.
Related Problems
Companion plants
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Knowledge and advice
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