About
Galanthus elwesii, the greater snowdrop, is a vigorous bulbous perennial to 30 cm with broad, glaucous leaves and nodding, solitary white flowers in late winter. The outer segments are to 2.5 cm long; the inner ones are flared at the tip with both basal and apical green marks that sometimes merge into one. One of the boldest and most striking of all snowdrops.
About the genus
Galanthus, the snowdrops, are dwarf bulbous perennials with linear or strap-shaped leaves and solitary, often honey-scented, nodding flowers with three white outer tepals and three shorter inner ones, usually marked with green. They flower in late winter and early spring and are among the most beloved harbingers of spring.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Rock garden, Wildflower meadow
Native toSE Europe
ToxicityHumans/Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil that does not dry out in summer. See snowdrop cultivation for further information.
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown in containers in an open frame when ripe or division when foliage dies back. Seed may not come true
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to narcissus bulb fly
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to snowdrop grey mould