Galanthus nivalis

For many gardeners the snowdrop, Galanthus nivalis, heralds the end of winter. It's extraordinarily hardy, and comes back every year, reliably flowering very early whatever the weather. With snowdrops, the colder and gloomier it is, the longer the blooms last, but in a sunny warm winter they are comparatively fleeting.

Galanthus are perennial bulbs native to Europe and the Middle East, although not Britain. However they grow well in the UK and many have naturalised and can be found growing in woodlands and other places outside gardens. There are around 20 species of galanthus worldwide, of which Galanthus nivalis is the most commonly grown in the UK. Bear in mind that galanthus bulbs and plants are poisonous to humans and pets, and can cause vomiting if ingested.

Galanthus nivalis grows in most soils, but does particularly well in heavier, moist soils. They do best in light shade, similar to their native woodland habitat. Plant galanthus bulbs in the green (just after flowering, with leaves intact), as dry bulbs often take a season to settle down before flowering. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).