Chionodoxa sardensis

Chinodoxa sardensis, or lesser glory-of-the-snow, is a beautiful and uncommon bulbous plant. In early spring, it forms large clusters of delicate and refined blue flowers with white centres. It is not demanding and can easily naturalise in woodlands or rockeries, requiring only well-drained, light, humus-rich soil that is not too poor. It is also an excellent species for spring containers.

Still rarely available for sale, the lesser glory-of-the-snow belongs to the Asparagaceae. It is also known, depending on sources, as Scilla sardensis. Contrary to what one might think, it is not native to Sardinia, but derives its name from the city of Sardis, the capital of the ancient region of Lydia located in western Turkey. Chionodoxa can be found in open woodlands or in rocky meadows. From the end of winter, the small onion-like bulb produces 2 lanceolate gutter-shaped leaves of a beautiful vibrant green, often marked with dark red on their margins. Their tips are closed by a rounded fold. Between March and April, a short floral stem emerges, reaching about 15cm (6in) in height, at the end of which a cluster of 10 to 12 intensely purple-blue flowers with white centres unfolds. This bright and attractive colour seems to banish winter, much to the delight of gardeners. It is visually similar to other species like Chionodoxa forbesii, but can be distinguished by its less extensive white eye and its more intense blue colour.

Chinodoxa sardensis thrives in well-drained, light, and moderately moist soil, in partially shaded or sunny positions protected from scorching sun. It is an easy-going plant that is very hardy (-15°C (5°F) minimum) despite its origin in Asia Minor. The colder the winter, the more it blooms! Avoid wet soils in winter, as they would greatly affect its hardiness and long-term survival. Similarly, the bulbs can withstand summer droughts, as they are dormant during this period. However, do not plant them in arid climates. With little maintenance, the lesser glory-of-the-snow naturalises and multiplies abundantly when it finds favourable conditions for its growth. It can be cultivated in containers. The bulbs can be forced indoors.

Chinodoxa sardensis pairs well with other spring bulbs, such as Erythronium 'Pagoda' or Corydalis 'Purple Bird' in woodlands, and with Ipheion or Muscari 'Golden Fragrance' in slightly sunnier borders.