Giant snowdrop Galanthus elwesii 'Comet'
ABOUT
Known as the giant snowdrop, 'Comet' is a striking variant that boasts certain distinctive features. The plant is recognized for its graceful, nodding white flowers that resemble droplets, gently hanging from the stem. These blossoms typically showcase a single, bell-shaped structure comprised of six petals, with the three outer petals being longer and more pronounced, and the three inner ones marked with a green V-shaped patch at the tip. The foliage of 'Comet' is a fresh, rich green, often with a glaucous or silvery touch, forming slender, linear leaves that embrace the flower stem. The overall look of this plant is one of elegant simplicity, making it a coveted choice for winter and early spring gardens where it adds a delicate touch of brightness.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Elwes' Snowdrop, Greater Snowdrop, Giant Snowdrop, Turkish Snowdrop, Comet Snowdrop
Common names
Galanthus elwesii 'Comet'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Snowdrop can be toxic to humans if ingested. The main toxic component in Snowdrops is the alkaloid called galantamine, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, it may lead to irregular heartbeats, seizures, and even collapse. While contact with skin is generally not harmful, ingesting any part of the Snowdrop, especially in large quantities, can lead to the aforementioned symptoms.
To pets
Like in humans, the Snowdrop is also toxic to pets. If a pet ingests part of this plant, it could exhibit symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy. In severe cases, ingestion might lead to more serious effects such as changes in heart rate, seizures, and collapse. Pet owners should ensure that their animals do not have access to Snowdrops in gardens or bouquets brought into the home.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Spread
3 inches (7.5 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Turkey
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Galanthus elwesii 'Comet', commonly known as the Giant Snowdrop, has a distinctive and attractive appearance with its larger-than-average, nodding white flowers that provide interest to winter gardens.
- Early Bloomer: This plant is one of the first to bloom in late winter to early spring, often emerging through snow, which can provide an early nectar source for pollinators.
- Low Maintenance: The Giant Snowdrop is considered easy to grow, requiring minimal care once established, making it ideal for novice gardeners or those who prefer lower-maintenance landscapes.
- Naturalizing: The plant has the ability to spread and naturalize over time, forming impressive carpets of white blooms that can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and natural areas.
- Cold Hardy: It is well-suited to cold climates, capable of withstanding winter temperatures without requiring special protection.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, Galanthus elwesii 'Comet' can tolerate periods of dryness, which can be beneficial in regions experiencing water scarcity or for water-wise gardens.
- Deer and Rodent Resistance: The bulbs and foliage are generally resistant to deer and rodents, reducing the need for protective measures in gardens plagued by these animals.
- Sign of Spring: The emergence of the Giant Snowdrop's flowers is often interpreted as an early indicator that spring is approaching, bringing joy and optimism to gardeners and onlookers.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Galanthus elwesii 'Comet', commonly known as Giant Snowdrop, can be used as a natural pest repellent due to its chemical compounds that are unappealing to some rodents and pests.
- As a symbol of resilience and hope, the Giant Snowdrop may be used in educational settings such as schools and therapeutic gardens to teach lessons on spring and rebirth.
- These plants are sometimes used in winter and early spring wedding bouquets or decorations to add natural beauty and to represent purity.
- Giant Snowdrop flowers could be used in artistic endeavors, such as pressed flower art, because their delicate appearance retains a distinctive shape when pressed.
- The blooms of the Giant Snowdrop can be used to create natural dyes or inks, though the colors may be subtle and not traditionally sought after.
- Galanthus elwesii 'Comet' can be planted as a living indicator of climate change; its blooming time may shift as local weather patterns change.
- Due to its early bloom, the plant may be used in ecological studies to monitor the effects of seasonal shifts on plant life cycles.
- Cultivating Giant Snowdrop can be used for competitiveness in horticulture, where enthusiasts strive to grow the most perfect or largest specimen.
- The strong contrast of its white flowers against dark winter soil can be utilized in photography to create dramatic and beautiful images of the winter garden.
- In a culinary context, although not commonly eaten, the flowers might be used as decorative, non-toxic garnishes for dishes in high-end culinary presentations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Snowdrop is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Snowdrop is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: The snow-white color of the Galanthus elwesii 'Comet', commonly known as the 'Giant Snowdrop', is often associated with purity and innocence.
- Hope: Blooming in late winter, the Giant Snowdrop is seen as a symbol of hope and the promise of spring to come.
- Resilience: It is one of the first plants to emerge through the snow, symbolizing resilience and the ability to overcome challenges.
- Consolation or Comfort: In the language of flowers, snowdrops can represent consolation or comfort, offering solace to those who receive them.
- New Beginnings: Given their early appearance in the year, Giant Snowdrops are emblematic of new beginnings and fresh starts.
WaterThe Giant Snowdrop, as Galanthus elwesii 'Comet' is commonly known, requires consistent moisture during its growing season in fall and early winter. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, which typically means once a week. The amount of water needed can vary, but a general rule is to apply about 1 gallon of water per square yard of soil, ensuring the water penetrates the soil to reach the roots without causing waterlogged conditions. During the plant's dormant period in late spring and summer, reduce watering frequency as the soil should be allowed to dry out more between waterings.
LightThe Giant Snowdrop prefers partial shade, thriving best under the dappled light of open woodland settings or shaded garden areas. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight as it can damage the delicate flowers and foliage. A north-facing garden spot that receives filtered morning light or late afternoon sun is ideal for promoting healthy growth without the risk of scorching the plant.
TemperatureThe Giant Snowdrop tolerates a range of temperatures and is hardy to USDA zones 3 through 9. It can withstand winter temperatures down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit when dormant. The ideal growing temperature during its active phase in fall and early winter is between 35 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme heat above 75 degrees Fahrenheit can be detrimental to the plant and should be avoided.
PruningPruning of the Giant Snowdrop is typically minimal and focuses on the removal of spent flowers and yellowing foliage. After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally, as this helps the plant to store energy for the next growing season. Prune away dead or damaged foliage in late spring as the plant enters dormancy. The best time for this light pruning is after the foliage has turned yellow and begun to wither.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe Giant Snowdrop ('Comet') thrives in a soil mix composed of loamy or sandy soil enriched with organic matter, ensuring good drainage. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingGiant Snowdrop bulbs should generally be repotted every 3 to 5 years, but they can be left undisturbed for longer periods if they are thriving and multiplying.
Humidity & MistingGiant Snowdrops prefer outdoor humidity levels, adapting well to the typical humidity range found in a garden setting without requiring special adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and plant in well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, rich soil; water regularly.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleGiant Snowdrop 'Comet' begins its growth cycle as a bulb underground, entering a period of dormancy during the warmer months when the foliage dies back. In the late winter to early spring, it breaks dormancy and sends up shoots that develop into linear leaves and singular, nodding white flowers, each with a green marking on the inner petals. Following pollination by insects, such as bees, the flowers develop into seed capsules. When the seeds mature, they may be dispersed by the wind or wildlife, enabling the potential for new plants to grow elsewhere if conditions are favourable. The leaves eventually wither, and the plant returns to dormancy, conserving energy in the bulb for the next growing season. This cycle repeats annually, with the bulb gradually multiplying and forming offsets, leading to the spread of the Giant Snowdrop 'Comet' in suitable garden conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The most popular method for propagating the Galanthus elwesii 'Comet', commonly known as the Giant Snowdrop, is by dividing the bulbs. The best time to do this is when the leaves have died back after flowering, typically in late spring or early summer. Carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate them by hand, ensuring that each new bulb has a portion of the basal plate for roots to grow. Once divided, the bulbs can be immediately replanted in the ground at a depth of around 3 inches (approximately 7.6 cm), spacing them about 3 inches apart. It's important to water the newly planted bulbs well to help establish them. This vegetative method ensures that the offspring are genetically identical to the parent plant, preserving any unique characteristics of the 'Comet' variety.
