About
Galanthus plicatus, the pleated snowdrop, is a vigorous bulbous perennial to 20 cm with broad, grey-bloomed, dark-green, distinctively pleated leaves and solitary white flowers 2.5 cm long from late winter. The inner segments are marked green at the apex, sometimes also at the base. One of the finest and most robust of the species 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
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Native toE 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 in sun or partial shade. See snowdrop cultivation for further information.
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in containers in an open frame when ripe or by 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