About
Galanthus nivalis, the common snowdrop, is a beloved perennial to 15 cm with narrow, grey-green leaves and solitary, nodding, aromatic white flowers 2.5 cm long, the inner segments marked with green at the tip. One of the most familiar and treasured plants in the British garden, naturalising freely in woodland and borders.
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 toEurope
FragranceFlower
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