About
This bulbous perennial with grey-green leaves and white, nodding flowers borne on stems to 16cm tall from mid to late winter. The narrow, tapering outer petals open to reveal long inner petals forming a narrow tube marked with a large green blob at the top and a green inverted 'U' at the bottom.
About the genus
Galanthus are dwarf bulbous perennials with linear or strap-shaped leaves, and solitary, often honey-scented, nodding flowers with 3 white outer tepals and 3 smaller inner ones often marked with green
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-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 usesCottage and informal garden, Rock garden, City and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants
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
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division when foliage dies back
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to narcissus bulb fly
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to snowdrop grey mould