Overview
Leucojum autumnale is a bulbous perennial in the genus Leucojum, part of the Amaryllidaceae family. Leucojum autumnale grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or loamy soils and neutral and slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include rock gardens, borders and naturalizing. It is native to Portugal, Spain, Morocco, Sicily and Tunisia.
About
Leucojum autumnale is a bulbous perennial in the Amaryllidaceae that produces scented spring flowers in March to April. It comes from western Mediterranean regions including Portugal, Spain, Morocco, Sicily and Tunisia. Plant it in well‑drained sandy or loamy soil, in a south‑facing, sheltered spot, and keep soil moisture moderate. Take care around children and pets because the plant is toxic if ingested.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Acis autumnalis
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 autumnale is a bulbous perennial in the Amaryllidaceae native to Portugal, Spain, Morocco, Sicily and Tunisia. In the UK it flowers in March to April, carrying a mild, sweet fragrance that is most noticeable when planted close to a path or seating area. Its Mediterranean origin suggests a preference for sun and shelter rather than exposed, waterlogged sites. For cultivation choose a south‑facing, sheltered position with well‑drained sandy or loamy soil in a neutral to slightly acidic range. It tolerates full sun or partial shade and prefers moderate soil moisture rather than heavy, clayey wetness. The UK hardiness rating H4 (average) indicates it will tolerate normal winter conditions across many gardens but do avoid the coldest, most exposed upland spots. Use Leucojum autumnale in rock gardens, mixed borders or for naturalising in a tended lawn or gravel area where drainage is good. The combination of early spring flowering and a mild scent makes it a discreet but effective choice for planting near walkways; note that all parts are toxic if ingested, so site away from areas frequented by young children and pets.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Leucojum
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, sandy or loamy
- Soil pH
- neutral, slightly acidic
- Soil moisture
- moderate
- Aspect
- south-facing
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Leucojum autumnale size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- bulbous perennial
- Suggested uses
- rock gardens, borders, naturalizing
- Native to
- Portugal, Spain, Morocco, Sicily, Tunisia
- Fragrance
- mild, sweet
- Toxicity
- toxic if ingested
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Leucojum autumnale
- Cultivation
- Plant bulbs in autumn, 5-7 cm deep; prefers well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging
- Pruning
- Remove spent flowers to prevent seed formation
- Propagation
- by bulb division or seed
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Leucojum autumnale?
Plant bulbs in autumn, 5-7 cm deep; prefers well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Leucojum autumnale?
Leucojum autumnale prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Leucojum autumnale need?
Leucojum autumnale grows best in well-drained and sandy or loamy soil. It prefers neutral and slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
How do I prune Leucojum autumnale?
Remove spent flowers to prevent seed formation.
Is Leucojum autumnale hardy in the UK?
Leucojum autumnale has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Leucojum autumnale?
By bulb division or seed.
Is Leucojum autumnale toxic?
Toxic if ingested.
More in the Leucojum genus
- Leucojum aestivumsummer snowflake
- Leucojum aestivum 'Gravetye Giant'summer snowflake 'Gravetye Giant'
- Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum
- Leucojum aestivum var. pulchellumSnowflake
- Leucojum vernumspring snowflake
