Nodding white winter bulb that often pierces snow to flower. Naturalises freely in woodland, hedge banks and short grass.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 3–8 | −40 °C to −6.7 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H7 | down to −20 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 3–8 | −34 °C to −1 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 1–5 | −15 °C to 10 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
About Snowdrop
Snowdrops flower in the depths of winter, and the hardened tips of their leaves are adapted to push through frozen ground. They are the subject of an unusually intense collector culture, with single bulbs of rare cultivars changing hands for remarkable sums — a niche market that has its own name, galanthophilia. They are generally moved and divided "in the green", while still in leaf after flowering, because dry dormant bulbs establish poorly. A compound first isolated from the genus is now used in medicine for the treatment of Alzheimer's symptoms.
Growing notes
- One of the very first flowers of the year in many climates — a key seasonal marker
- Early nectar source for winter-active bumblebees on warm days
- Plant or transplant “in the green” (just after flowering, still in leaf) — dry bulbs establish poorly
- A small but devoted collector culture (galanthophiles) pays remarkable sums for rare cultivars
Pet caution: Snowdrop is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.
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