What: Galanthus elwesii, commonly known as giant snowdrops, are one of the earliest bulbs to flower. Their teardrop-shaped, white blooms start in mid January and plants continue to bloom until mid to late February. Each pure white outer petal hides a smaller interior petal that is branded with a grass-green mark. If you are close enough to see the mark, make sure to inhale the honey-sweet fragrance of this charming flower. Thin, strap-like, grey-green leaves grow in tight clumps and act as the perfect foil for the dainty drops.
Where: Plant this snowdrop in a site that receives full sun or light to open shade in late winter and early spring. It likes a rich well-drained soil in an area that gets occasional watering during the summer. Unlike many bulbs, they do not like to dry out in the summer. It is best to plant bulbs while they are dormant.
Size: Grows to 1 foot high in 10 years.
Care: Large clumps should be divided immediately after flowering before the foliage dies back for the summer.
— greatplantpicks.org
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
