Five of the best February-flowering bulbs

Discover our pick of the top five February flowering bulbs, below.

Snowdrops (galanthus) are one of the earliest bulbs to flower, and look particularly spectacular when planted in drifts.

Crocus

There are many different species and varieties of crocus to choose from. Most crocuses have beautiful, purple flowers, though there are also orange or white varieties to grow, like 'Jeanne D'Arc'.

Iris reticulata

Not to be confused with largely summer-flowering bearded irises, Iris reticulata produces a more refined flower, without compromising on colour. The deep violet blooms are splashed with yellow and white, serving as an eye-catching landing pad for bees and other pollinators.

Daffodils

To ensure you have plenty of bold daffodil blooms to enjoy in February, go for early-flowering varieties like 'February Gold' or 'Rijnveld's Early Sensation'. As an alternative to planting the bulbs in the ground, you could try creating a container display with primulas and the black, grass-like perennial Ophiopogon.

Snowdrops

Snowdrops (Galanthus) are one of the earliest bulbs to flower, and look particularly spectacular when planted in drifts. The scented blooms make pretty cut flowers, too. Don't forget to increase your stock of snowdrops by lifting and dividing the clumps, after flowering has finished.

Cyclamen coum

These shade-loving perennials produce delicate pink, purple and white blooms from January to March, so they're ideal February flowering bulbs. Grow Cyclamen coum in a humus-rich soil and provide with a good mulch of well-rotted manure to protect from summer heat and winter cold.

Naturalise bulbs in grass

Many late winter bulbs, including snowdrops and crocus, look stunning when left to naturalise in grass. Plant them under a deciduous tree for example, where they will form a carpet of colour.