4 named cultivars

bulb corm tuber RHS Award

Snowdrop

The Story

Plant Bio

Galanthus nivalis, the common snowdrop, is a small, bulbous perennial native to Europe. It is celebrated for its nodding, bell-shaped white flowers that appear in late winter to early spring, often through the snow.

Distinctive for its single, nodding white flower per stem, featuring three larger outer tepals and three smaller inner tepals, the latter marked with a green, V-shaped pattern at the tip. It naturalizes readily in suitable conditions.

Uses & Benefits:

Galanthus nivalis provides early spring charm with its delicate white blooms, brightening shaded gardens and woodland edges.

Its naturalization ability makes it excellent for low-maintenance ground cover in shady areas.

Supports early pollinators like bees emerging in spring and provides habitat for woodland creatures.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

6 inches

Width

4 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Toxic to pets and humans if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck bulbs 3 inches deep in well-draining soil in fall.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Mist foliage during dry periods for healthy growth.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in late summer or early fall.
Remove yellowing leaves after blooming to maintain appearance.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade for best bloom performance and avoid overly wet soil.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during growing season 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Remove spent flowers to encourage new growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
Do not plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
Refrain from disturbing bulbs during dormancy

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Early spring woodland borderDelicate carpet under treesFragrant naturalized garden

Companion Plants

Hepatica Crocus ScillaSnowdrops

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Snowdrop questions

What zones can Snowdrop grow in?

Snowdrop is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Snowdrop deer resistant?

Yes — Snowdrop is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Snowdrop bloom?

Snowdrop typically blooms in late winter to early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Snowdrop need full sun?

Snowdrop does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.