Galanthus nivalis
("Snowdrops")
The species we all know. Naturalizes very easily (especially in moist soil that supplies sufficient nutrients) in either a sunny location or one with some shade. The flowers are pendulous and bell-shaped; the leaves wither six weeks after the flowering period (mow around them for that long when planted in the lawn). 'Flore Pleno' is a beautiful double-flowering variety that is gaining in popularity.
What You Need To Know Before You Plant:
When Will This Flower Bloom?
Late Winter - Very Early Spring
When Should I Buy and Plant These Bulbs?
Fall
What Kind of Light Does This Bulb Prefer?
Full or partial shade
What Color Will the Flower Be?
White
How Far Apart Should I Plant These Bulbs?
2 in / 5 cm
How Deep Should I Dig?
4 in / 10 cm
How Tall Will It Grow?
8-10 in / 20-25 cm
Recommended Number of Bulbs Per Square Foot?
20
Is It Deer/Critter Resistant?
Yes
How Can I Best Use It in My Landscaping?
In borders, rock gardens, under trees and shrubs, and in lawns.
What Should I Do After Flowering?
Allow the foliage to die back naturally to replenish the bulb's energy for next year's growth and flowers. This will happen by late Spring before the rest of your garden gets going. Under favorable conditions (continous moist soil being the most important) they will multiply very quickly. Fewer and smaller flowers are a sign of overcrowding (this will happen after 3-4 years) and then the clumps should be divided just after the plants have finished flowering and while the leaves are still green. Carefully pull the bulbs apart and make sure to keep the foliage intact. Replant immediately and deep enough; making sure that at least 1" / 2cm of the green portion of the leaves is buried. Build up the soil around the stems for extra support.
Other Popular Varieties
(Besides the species itself); 'Flore Pleno' (white, double flowering) and 'Viridi-Apice' (white with green).
About the Family
Galanthus Family
The name Galanthus comes from Greek meaning 'milk white flowers'. With more than 75 species and varieties, snowdrops - practically without exception - all bloom very early in the Spring and have, indeed, milky-white flowers. Some times they are confused for 'snowflakes', however that is the common name for the genus Leucojum.
Read More About the Family