Galanthus nivalis – Snowdrop

Once known as Fair Maids of February, the common snowdrop,Galanthus nivalis, is now more likely to appear in January, thanks to climate change, and is one of the first flowers to appear each year. Its a bulbous herbaceous perennial which can spread to form large clumps and colonies in the shade of deciduous trees where the soil suits it. The single, nodding, slightly fragrant, pure white flowers are tipped with green on the three inner petals. The leaves are long, pointed and grey-green. Divide In the Green to increase the colony, and do not let the soil dry out in summer. Delightful as a cut flower. Excellent for bees and other pollinators. Holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site:Sheltered, preferably under deciduous trees
Position:Partial shade
Soil:Any moist, fertile soil high in humus
Planting Period:Dry Bulbs in Autumn, Bulbs ‘In the green’ in Spring and potted bulbsyear round
Flowering period:January toFebruary
Planting:Depth 2 (5 cm), Spacing 3 (7.5 cm) scatter on the ground and plant where they land for a natural effect.
Height:4 (10cm)