Greater Snowdrop elwesii

Robust and early-blooming, Galanthus elwesii is a bulbous perennial known for being one of the largest and most vigorous of the snowdrops. It has pretty, honey-scented bell-shaped white flowers with distinctive green markings on the inner petals. Compared to the common snowdrop, its foliage is broader and is a striking glaucous silvery-blue colour, which provides a beautiful contrast to the pure white blooms. These Greater Snowdrops emerge in late winter, often pushing through the snow to signal the start of spring. They are perfect for naturalizing under deciduous trees, in rock gardens, or at the front of borders.

Site: Sheltered, preferably under deciduous trees
Position: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Any moist, fertile soil high in humus
Planting Period: Dry Bulbs in Autumn
Flowering period: January to February
Planting: Depth 2” (5 cm), Spacing 3” (7.5 cm) scatter on the ground and plant where they land for a natural effect.
Height: 4-12" (10-30cm) Spread: 2-3" (5-8cm)

Photos by Joost J. Bakker, cropped and licensed under CC BY 4.0