Snowdrop

Galanthus nivalis

Nodding white winter bulb that often pierces snow to flower. Naturalises freely in woodland, hedge banks and short grass.

Hardiness ratings

Snowdrop hardiness across the four zone systems
SystemRatingTemperature rangeHow 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

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.

Categories

Related plants

Cross-check Snowdrop against your zones

Reference

Snowdrop on Wikipedia