Overview
Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum is a tufted bulbs in the genus Leucojum, part of the Amaryllidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include wildflower meadow, cottage and informal garden, rock garden and flower borders and beds.
About
Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum is a perennial bulbous plant in the Amaryllidaceae family, known for its tufted habit and deciduous, long, narrow strap-like leaves. It produces clusters of bell-shaped, typically white flowers with green-tipped tepals in spring. This cultivar thrives in full sun or partial shade and is adaptable to various soil types, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, provided the soil is moist but well-drained. It is hardy to UK zone H5 and suits wildflower meadows, cottage gardens, rock gardens, and flower borders.
About the genus
Leucojum is a small genus of bulbous plants native to Eurasia belonging to the amaryllis family, subfamily Amaryllidoideae. As currently circumscribed, the genus includes only two known species, most former species having been moved into the genus Acis. Both species are known as snowflakes.
Wikipedia contributors, "Leucojum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Leucojum
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Leucojum
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbs
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Wildflower meadow, Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum
- Propagation
- Seed, Offsets
- Pest resistance
- Slugs, Snails, Narcissus bulb fly
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum?
Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum need?
Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum hardy in the UK?
Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum?
Seed, Offsets.
More in the Leucojum genus
- Leucojum aestivumsummer snowflake

- Leucojum aestivum 'Gravetye Giant'summer snowflake 'Gravetye Giant'

- Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellumSnowflake

- Leucojum autumnaleAutumn Snowflake
- Leucojum vernumspring snowflake
