Spring Flowers: Early Bloomers That Herald Winter's End

The first spring flowers pushing through the last snow are a thrilling sight for any gardener. These harbingers of warmer weather signal the end of winter’s long days.

Snowdrops (Galanthus)

The common snowdrop (G. nivalis) has small, delicate blossoms; the giant snowdrop (G. elwesii) offers striking, larger blooms. Both are beloved early-spring favorites.

Iris reticulata

This bulb, from the high mountains of Western Asia, thrives in cold climates. It needs a well-drained bed with coarse sand or grit. Avoid overwatering, which damages the bulb. Colors range from pale amethyst to deep purple, with hybrids in solids, speckles, stripes, and splotches.

Adonis vernalis

A rare late-winter/early-spring bulb that blooms in March with beautiful yellow flowers. It makes a wonderful companion in any landscape, especially a winter rock garden.

No matter which early bloomers you choose, they reward you with color as winter yields to spring.