Galanthus

( gal - ANTH - us )

At-A-Glance Information

Galanthus, also called Snowdrop, is a perennial flowering plant that grows from bulb, and needs full sun during bloom, light shade otherwise. They need regular water and are native to Europe and Asia. They perform well in cold-winter climates, popping through inches of snow to produce delicate flowers. They are great under shrubs or trees, in woodland areas, or in container arrangements. Take care when planting Galanthus in your garden, as plant parts are toxic if ingested.

Galanthus Species and Varietals

The genus Galanthus is a member of the plant family Amaryllidaceae and includes about 20 species. Galanthus is a close relative of Leucojum (Snowflake), and is similar in looks. They grow best in zones 1-9 and 14-17, though this varies somewhat depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Galanthus elwesii (Giant Snowdrop)
Flower stems get 6-9 inches tall and are topped with flowers that have two green marks inside each segment. It is more well-adapted to warmer winters than other species. These plants are native to the Middle East, and bloom in January and February. 

Galanthus ikariae
This species grows best in zones 4-9 and 14-24, reaching 4-6 inches tall at maturity. Leaves are glossy and green, and there is a large green spot on the inner flower petals.

​Galanthus nivalis (Common Snowdrop)
Stems reach 4-6 inches tall and have flowers that are marked at the tips with a green crescent. Variety 'Flore Pleno' has double-blooms. Flowers typically bloom between January and April.

Galanthus plicatus (Crimean Snowdrop)
This species reaches about a foot tall when in bloom, and flowers between January and March each year. Flowers are white, and plants produce broad leaves that are folded back at the edges.

Galanthus reginae-olgae
Native to Greece and Sicily, this species of Snowdrop flowers in fall before leaves appear in springtime. Foliage has a white stripe on the upper surface. 

Caring for Galanthus

The bulbs should be planted in fall 3-4 inches deep and 3 inches apart, in moist soil amended with humus. They thrive in year-round moisture. They do not need to be divided often, but should be done right after bloom when flowers or foliage look like they are fading in health. 

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

Wikipedia: Galanthus
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 331, Galanthus
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!
​