greater snowdrop
Galanthus elwesii
RHS AGM 1993
USDA zones4 to 7
SunHandles full sun or partial sun or full shade
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size6 to 12 inches tall3 to 6 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Clumping
- Bloom season
- Spring, winter
- Bloom color
- White
- Foliage color
- Gray/silver, green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Greater snowdrop (Galanthus elwesii) is a bulb for borders, rock gardens, containers, and winter interest. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full sun to full shade and average to wet soil of most types. Deer and rabbits rarely make it their first choice. Its white, pendulous flowers often have green markings and a sweet scent. It blooms in late winter, often breaking through the snow, and bees visit the blooms.
Pairs well with Paris coral bells, Carnaval De Nice tulip, and Common blue violet.
Native range
Central Asia.