Overview
Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum is a bulbous perennial in the genus Leucojum, part of the Amaryllidaceae family. It typically grows around 0.5 m tall. Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Europe.
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
In the garden
Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum is a bulbous perennial native to Europe and a member of the Amaryllidaceae. It reliably produces its spring display in March to April and reaches roughly 0.5 m at maturity. The flowers are mildly fragrant and appear while the leaves are still present. Position this Snowflake in full sun where soil remains moist; it tolerates sandy, loamy and clay textures provided they are moist but reasonably free-draining. It is fully hardy in UK conditions (H7) and is also suitable across USDA zones 4–9, so it will withstand most winter extremes gardeners encounter in Britain. Allow room for bulbs to form clumps over time while keeping the soil consistently damp during the growing season. At around 0.5 m tall it suits a mid-height role in a spring border or a damp, sunny bed where moisture persists. Its mild fragrance adds a subtle note to spring plantings. Take care when planting or handling: every part of the plant is toxic if swallowed, so do not place bulbs where children or animals may dig them up and ingest them.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Leucojum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Wet
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbous perennial
- Height
- 0.5 m
- Native to
- Europe
- Fragrance
- Mild
- Toxicity
- Toxic if ingested
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum
- Propagation
- Division, Seed
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum?
Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum prefers full sun.
What soil does Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum need?
Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to wet.
How big does Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum grow?
Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum reaches a height of 0.5 m.
Is Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum hardy in the UK?
Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum?
Division, Seed.
Is Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellum toxic?
Toxic if ingested.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.
More in the Leucojum genus
- Leucojum aestivumsummer snowflake
- Leucojum aestivum 'Gravetye Giant'summer snowflake 'Gravetye Giant'
- Leucojum autumnaleAutumn Snowflake
- Leucojum vernumspring snowflake
