We’ve already had some snow in the Mid-Atlantic. While some people hate the snow, I like a good winter storm or two, especially if I don’t have to drive in it. Another thing I like about the winter is the appearance of Galanthus in the landscape. Commonly known as snowdrops, Galanthus are small bulbous perennials native to Europe and Asia.
Snowdrops are appealing for many reasons. They like part sun or shade in humus-rich soil, divide easily, bloom from October to April, and spread themselves freely by self-seeding and bulb offsets. To me, seeing a continually expanding carpet of snowdrops is one of the most delightful scenes in the garden.
As with many other plants, Snowdrops vary in bloom size and time, shape and color. True collectors, like many of my friends, consider themselves ‘galanthophiles,’ since they passionately seek out as many different varieties as possible and can tell you the distinctive characteristics of each kind.
I have an expanding collection of unique Galanthus, but also some of the most common types. Plant snowdrops at the base of deciduous perennials since they go dormant in the spring and will eventually be covered up by the expanding foliage of plant material that share their space. Deer and rabbits typically leave snowdrops alone. Something is eating mine though – perhaps mice or a confused rabbit who hasn’t read the book on what he’s supposed to like.
Galanthus nivalis (Common Snowdrop) performs reliably, is readily available and features pure white flowers with a distinctive ‘V’ marking on the inner petals. Galanthus elwesii (Elwes’ Snowdrop) is larger and broader than nivalis with more robust flowers. Another popular variety is Sam Arnott, a large flowered cultivar known for its strong and upright growth.
Some of the more uncommon selections I’ve collected include ‘Potter’s Prelude’ which blooms in November and December, ‘Wendy’s Gold’ which has a yellow ovary and some of the doubles like ‘Flore Pleno’ and ‘Blewbury Tart.’
While many of us try to avoid getting bugs in the winter, don’t worry about getting the snowdrop bug. In fact, I encourage infection! To facilitate this, be sure to add the Galanthus Gala to your calendar right now. This event, the brainchild of my friend David Culp, features growers, specialty vendors and a lecture series. You can purchase tickets to attend the lectures and access the vendors early, or simply show up between 10:00 AM and 3:30 PM on March 1, 2025 at the Downingtown Friends Meeting House to shop the vendor space for free.
I can promise you will leave the Gala with some amazing Galanthus along with a number of unusual and desirable companion plants sure to add cheer and interest to your space. I look forward to seeing you there!
