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 4.0Leucojum

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

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