Galanthus elwesii (Greater Snowdrop)

Plant Profile

Galanthus elwesii, the Greater Snowdrop, is a larger, more robust species than the common snowdrop. It has broad, glaucous, gray-green leaves and produces a single, nodding, white flower with distinct green markings on the inner segments in late winter to early spring. One of the earliest bulbs to bloom.

Key Characteristics

• Family: Amaryllidaceae (am-uh-ril-id-AY-see-ee)
• Genus: Galanthus (guh-LAN-thus)
• Species: elwesii (el-WEZ-ee-eye)

Growing Conditions

Partial shade, moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Hardy in USDA zones 4–7. Plant bulbs in fall.

Landscape Uses

Woodland gardens, under deciduous trees, naturalized in grass. Early pollinator source.

Maintenance

Allow foliage to die back naturally. Divide clumps when overcrowded, after flowering.