Snowdrop Galanthus elwesii var. elwesii 'Kite'
ABOUT
The plant known as 'Kite' is a variety of the common snowdrop, featuring some distinct characteristics. Unlike the typical snowdrop blooms, 'Kite' has flowers that are notable for their elongated, outer petals, which provide a more pronounced and elegant display when observed up close. The petals are pure white and are gracefully poised, hanging downwards like dainty lanterns with a gentle nodding effect. At the center of the flower, the inner petals can be seen sporting a green, crescent-shaped mark, which is a hallmark of snowdrops and adds a splash of color contrast to the otherwise pristine whiteness of the bloom. The foliage of 'Kite' emanates from the base and consists of slender, green leaves that are glossy and have a slight ripple to them. These leaves create a lush backdrop for the flowers and continue to add visual interest even when the plant is not in bloom. The overall appearance of 'Kite' is one of delicate beauty and simplicity, embodying the early signs of spring when it flowers against the backdrop of the last remnants of winter.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Giant Snowdrop, Elwes's Snowdrop, Greater Snowdrop
Common names
Galanthus elwesii var. elwesii 'Kite'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Giant snowdrop is considered toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains alkaloids including galantamine, which is toxic. If someone consumes parts of the Giant snowdrop, they may experience symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion could lead to more serious symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, and even cardiac arrhythmia. It is advisable to seek medical attention if ingestion occurs.
To pets
The Giant snowdrop is also toxic to pets. Like in humans, the presence of alkaloids can cause similar symptoms if pets consume any part of the plant. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and incoordination. Severe cases could potentially escalate to seizures or cardiac issues. It is important to keep pets away from the plant and to consult with a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6-8 inches (15-20 cm)
Spread
3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Turkey
Benefits
General Benefits- Early Bloomer: Galanthus elwesii 'Kite', commonly known as Snowdrop, produces flowers early in the year, often before the last snows, bringing the first signs of spring to a garden.
- Low Maintenance: Snowdrops require minimal care once established, making them ideal for gardeners seeking low-effort plants.
- Naturalizing: Snowdrops naturally multiply and spread over the years, filling garden spaces with their delicate blossoms.
- Pest Resistance: These plants are generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical interventions in the garden.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, snowdrops have good drought tolerance, particularly during their dormancy in summer.
- Cold Hardy: Snowdrops are very cold-hardy and can survive in harsh winter climates, providing reliable year-after-year blooms.
- Attracts Pollinators: Early-blooming snowdrops provide an important nectar source for bees and other pollinators at a time when few other flowers are in bloom.
- Deer Resistant: Snowdrops are not typically favored by deer, which can help preserve the blooms in areas where deer browsing is a problem.
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 'Kite', commonly known as Giant Snowdrop, can serve as a natural cold weather indicator, as it blooms even in snow, signaling the end of winter.
- Giant Snowdrop bulbs can be used in a process called "twin-scaling" to propagate new bulbs more quickly than they would naturally divide, which is useful for horticultural enthusiasts.
- These flowers are often planted to create 'snowdrop carpets' in woodland settings, which can serve as a tourist attraction in early spring.
- Giant Snowdrop is suitable for naturalizing in grassy areas, their early season blooms providing aesthetic value before lawn maintenance begins.
- As a harbinger of spring, Giant Snowdrop is regarded as a symbol of hope and can be used in cultural events or festivals that celebrate the changing seasons.
- Giant Snowdrop is sometimes used in photography for its aesthetic appeal, providing a contrasting backdrop to the white flowers against a wintry landscape.
- The flowers of the Giant Snowdrop can be used in floral arrangements, especially for winter-themed weddings or events.
- Galanthus elwesii 'Kite' can be planted alongside autumn crocuses to create a sequential blooming display from winter to early spring in gardens.
- In literature and art, the Giant Snowdrop is often depicted as a symbol of purity and innocence, suitable for enhancing poetic or artistic themes.
- Giant Snowdrop can be used to educate children on plant life cycles and propagating techniques, especially twin-scaling, as they offer visually observable results.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Snowdrop is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Snowdrop is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: Galanthus, commonly known as snowdrop, is often associated with purity due to its pristine white flowers that emerge even through the snow.
- Hope: The snowdrop is one of the first flowers to bloom at the end of winter, symbolizing the hope that comes with the arrival of spring after a long, dark season.
- Renewal: As a herald of spring, the snowdrop represents renewal and the circle of life, as nature reawakens after winter's sleep.
- Consolation: In the language of flowers, snowdrops can suggest sympathy and are sometimes given to provide solace to those experiencing loss or sadness.
WaterThe Giant Snowdrop, which is commonly referred to as Galanthus elwesii, requires moderate watering. During active growth in the fall and early spring, ensure the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged. You should water the plant roughly once a week with about 1-2 gallons of water, depending on the soil's moisture level and the local weather conditions. Cut back on watering once the foliage begins to die back in late spring and allow the soil to dry out as the bulbs enter dormancy in the summer.
LightGiant Snowdrop thrives in dappled sunlight to partial shade. It is best planted under deciduous trees where it will receive sunlight before the trees fully leaf out in spring. Avoid placing it in full, harsh sun as it can damage the delicate flowers and foliage.
TemperatureThe ideal growing temperatures for the Giant Snowdrop are between 35 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive winter temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for cold climates. However, extended periods above 65 degrees can push the plant into dormancy earlier than normal.
PruningPruning is not typically required for the Giant Snowdrop as it is a low-maintenance bulbous plant. However, after flowering, remove spent flowers to promote energy redirection to the bulb for next season's growth. Cut back foliage only when it has yellowed and died naturally in late spring, as it provides nutrients to the bulb as it dies back.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Giant Snowdrop should be well-draining, with a mix of loamy soil, sand, and compost, with an ideal pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingGiant Snowdrop typically does not need frequent repotting; it’s best to repot only when the clumps become overcrowded, generally every 3-5 years.
Humidity & MistingGiant Snowdrop thrives in outdoor humidity levels, not requiring any special indoor humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Giant Snowdrop in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade outdoors; mulch for moisture retention.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleGalanthus elwesii var. elwesii 'Kite', commonly known as the Elwes's snowdrop 'Kite', begins its life cycle as a bulb, which remains dormant under the soil through the warmer months. In late winter to early spring, it breaks dormancy and sends up shoots, which quickly develop into flowering stems. The flowers are distinctive, typically nodding with three outer white tepals and three smaller inner tepals marked with green. After flowering, the plant produces a seed capsule, and once the seeds mature, the capsule opens to release them. The foliage continues to photosynthesize and store energy in the bulb before dying back in late spring as the plant re-enters dormancy. During dormancy, the bulb divides and multiplies, creating more plants for the following season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The common name of Galanthus elwesii var. elwesii 'Kite' is the Giant Snowdrop. The most popular method of propagating this plant is by division of its bulb clusters, ideally done when the plant is dormant from late spring to early summer after the foliage has died back. Carefully dig up the entire clump of bulbs and gently separate them by hand. Each separated bulb can then be replanted immediately at a depth of about 3 inches (approximately 7.5 centimeters) with the pointed end facing upward. Ensure that the new planting site is well-draining soil in a location with light to dappled shade. This method of propagation helps to maintain the purity of the 'Kite' variety and typically results in flowering in subsequent years.
