Galanthus - Snowdrop

Snowdrops or Galanthus are delicate little bulbs that flower first, even under the snow. Native to Asia Minor and Europe, they have 2 linear, glaucous leaves that surround the flower stalk, which is topped with a small white bell-shaped flower slightly tinged with green at the tips of the petals. It has a slight honey fragrance. Galanthus nivalis is the most common, but you can also find the variety with double flowers 'Flore Pleno'. Snowdrops like loose and fresh soil, not too rich, well-drained in winter, without fresh manure or compost in semi-shaded but cool conditions all year round. Plant in groups of 20 or 100 from September to late October, at a depth of 5cm (2in) and with spacing. Leave in place for several years and divide the clumps every 3 to 5 years as soon as the leaves turn yellow. Snowdrops are perfect in woodlands, rockeries, shrub beds, borders, and containers, combined with crocuses, winter Aconites, Anemone blanda, or spring Cyclamens.