Description
Galanthus – Snowdrop –
There are about 19 species of bulbous perennials, in this genus. They occur from Europe to Western Asia, mostly in upland woodland but also in rocky sites. They bloom mainly from late winter to mid spring, each bulb usually producing a single, pendent bloom with an arching flower stalk on a slander stems, above 2 rarely 3, semi erect, strap shaped to inversely lance shaped, basal leaves. The pear shaped flowers are white with 3 small inner tepals variably marked green, and 3 larger, spreading outer tepals. They are sometimes scented. Most snowdrops are vigorous and easily grown, some are suitable for naturalizing in grass or light woodland, and grow well in borders and rock gardens and make excellent cut flowers. All parts may cause mild stomach upset if ingested, contact with the bulbs may irritate skin
Grow in humus rich, moist but well drained soil that does not dry out in summer, in partial shade. Divide clumps immediately as the flowers fade and while still in leaf.
Prone to narcissus bulb fly and snowdrop gray mold.
G. fosteri – This slender, bulbous perennial from Turkey and Lebanon grows 3-8″ tall. It produces narrow, bright, deep green leaves, 3-5 ½” long. In late winter it bears flowers ½-1″ long, with inner tepals marked green at the bases and apexes. Needs a dry site. Plant bulbs 4″ deep to minimize development of non-flowering bulbs.
Zones 5-9
