Snowdrop Galanthus 'Icicle'
ABOUT
The plant named Galanthus 'Icicle', commonly referred to as the snowdrop, is a charming perennial known for its delicate, bell-shaped white flowers. Each flower features three outer petals that are gracefully arched and longer, resembling a classic snowdrop form, while the three inner petals are shorter and often display a mark or a greenish hue at their tips. The inner petals are tucked within the outer ones, creating a sense of depth and intricacy. Emerging in late winter or early spring, the flowers dangle at the tip of a slender, leafless stalk, nodding gently in the breeze. Beneath the flowers, the foliage of Galanthus 'Icicle' consists of slender, green, grass-like leaves. These leaves are basal, meaning they grow from the base of the plant. In their growth, they often create a tufted appearance, framing the delicate flowers with a fresh, green background. The overall aspect of the plant is one of purity and grace, symbolizing the end of winter with their snow-white appearance and the first hints of the upcoming spring season.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Snowdrop, Icicle Snowdrop.
Common names
Galanthus 'Icicle'.
ToxicityTo humans
Snowdrops, including the Galanthus 'Icicle' cultivar, contain alkaloids such as galantamine, which can be poisonous if ingested in large quantities. Consumption of these plants can cause symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), dizziness, and in severe cases, it can lead to cardiac issues or neurological complications. Handling the plant can sometimes cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. It is advised to keep snowdrops out of reach of children and not to ingest any part of the plant.
To pets
Snowdrops, including the Galanthus 'Icicle' cultivar, are toxic to pets if ingested. They contain alkaloids that can cause gastrointestinal upset in animals such as vomiting and diarrhea, along with lethargy and incoordination. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious conditions including seizures or cardiac problems. Pets should be prevented from accessing and eating any part of snowdrop plants to avoid possible poisoning.
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
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Early blooming: Galanthus 'Icicle', commonly known as snowdrop, typically flowers in late winter or early spring, providing early season interest in the garden.
- Attracts pollinators: Snowdrops offer a valuable nectar source for pollinators like bees that are active during the cooler months.
- Low maintenance: Snowdrops are known for being hardy and require minimal care once established, making them suitable for novice gardeners.
- Cold tolerance: As a plant that flourishes in cooler temperatures, snowdrops are well-suited to cold climates and can survive frosty conditions.
- Naturalizing: Snowdrops have the ability to spread and form natural-looking drifts over time, enhancing the aesthetic of woodland gardens and natural areas.
- Aesthetic appeal: The delicate white flowers of the snowdrop are considered a classic sign of spring and can lift the spirits after a long winter.
- Ground cover: When planted in groups, snowdrops provide ground cover which can help suppress weeds and protect the soil.
- Companion planting: Snowdrops can be planted alongside other spring bulbs and perennials, as they do not interfere with the growth of summer plants that emerge later.
Medical Properties- Galanthamine production: Galanthus 'Icicle' biosynthesizes galanthamine, a substance used pharmaceutically to treat mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease and various other memory impairments.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral Displays: Snowdrop, including the 'Icicle' variety, is often used in winter floral arrangements and bouquets due to its delicate and graceful appearance.
- Photography: The uniqueness of the Snowdrop 'Icicle', with its striking white petals, makes it a popular subject for macro and botanical photographers.
- Garden Design: Snowdrop 'Icicle' can be planted in drifts to create a 'carpet' effect in the late winter garden, providing a stunning visual impact.
- Collectors' Item: Enthusiasts of galanthus often seek out varieties like 'Icicle' to add to their specialized collections due to their rarity or unique characteristics.
- Festivals and Celebrations: The Snowdrop 'Icicle' is celebrated in certain cultures and regions with festivals that mark the arrival of early spring.
- Educational Resource: Schools and nature programs sometimes incorporate Snowdrops into their curriculum to teach about plant life cycles and early season flora.
- Winter Gardens: Snowdrop 'Icicle' can be a feature for winter garden displays in botanical gardens, providing interest during the colder months.
- Art Inspiration: The delicate structure and heralding of spring make Snowdrops, including 'Icicle,' a favored subject in various forms of art, like painting and sculpture.
- Specialty Nurseries: Creating a niche market for enthusiasts, some nurseries focus on the propagation and sale of unique Snowdrop varieties including 'Icicle'.
- Symbolism: In some cultures, Snowdrops such as the 'Icicle' represent purity and hope and are thus used in various symbolic gestures or gifts.
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: The white color of the snowdrop's (Galanthus 'Icicle') petals symbolizes purity and innocence, reflecting the flower's pristine appearance.
- Hope: Snowdrops are often the first flowers to bloom at the end of winter, signalling the coming of spring and representing hope and the possibility of new beginnings.
- Consolation: In the language of flowers, snowdrops can represent sympathy and comfort in times of loss or sadness, due to their gentle appearance.
- Resilience: Despite their delicate look, snowdrops are hardy plants that can push through frozen ground, symbolizing strength and the ability to overcome challenges.
WaterSnowdrops, including the Galanthus 'Icicle', should be watered moderately during their active growing phase, which is typically from late winter to spring. It is crucial to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During this period, generally water once a week with about 1-2 gallons depending on the size of the plant and environmental conditions. Once the foliage begins to yellow and die back, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Overwatering, especially during dormant periods, can lead to bulb rot.
LightSnowdrops, like Galanthus 'Icicle', prefer partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. The ideal spot is under deciduous trees or shrubs, where they can receive filtered sunlight in spring before the trees fully leaf out. Avoid placing them in areas with intense afternoon sun which can be detrimental, especially in warmer zones.
TemperatureSnowdrops thrive in a range of temperatures but perform best when the winter temperature does not exceed 65 degrees Fahrenheit and does not drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. They require cold winter conditions to trigger dormancy and subsequent flowering. The ideal growth temperature for Galanthus 'Icicle' is between 35 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit during their active growing season.
PruningPruning is generally not required for Snowdrops like Galanthus 'Icicle'. However, after flowering, it is important to let the foliage die back naturally rather than cutting it off; this allows the plant to store energy for the next season. If needed, remove dead or yellowed leaves to maintain a tidy appearance, doing so after they have yellowed completely.
CleaningNot needed
SoilSnowdrop 'Icicle' prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.5 and 7.0. To create an ideal soil mix, combine garden soil, peat moss or leaf mold, and perlite or sand to improve drainage.
RepottingSnowdrops 'Icicle' are generally low maintenance and seldom need repotting. They can be left undisturbed for several years until clumps become overcrowded. It's best to divide and repot them right after they finish flowering if necessary.
Humidity & MistingSnowdrop 'Icicle' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require specific humidity conditions. It thrives in outdoor conditions where the humidity naturally fluctuates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a cool, bright spot; keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in dappled shade; enrich soil with compost.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleGalanthus 'Icicle', commonly known as the snowdrop, begins its life cycle as a bulb dormant beneath the soil, typically during the summer. As temperatures cool and winter approaches, the bulb breaks dormancy and starts to send up a shoot. In late winter to early spring, the shoot emerges from the ground, displaying its characteristic white, pendulous flowers, which are an early source of pollen and nectar for pollinators. After flowering, the plant produces linear leaves that photosynthesize energy, allowing the bulb to store nutrients for the next growing season. Once the flowers have been pollinated, typically by bees, the plant may produce a small capsule containing seeds, which can be dispersed to propagate new plants. As temperatures rise in late spring, the foliage dies back, and the bulb re-enters a period of dormancy until the cycle restarts the following winter.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
Propogation: The Galanthus 'Icicle', commonly known as the Icicle snowdrop, is a plant that is typically propagated through division, a process best carried out in late spring after the leaves have died back. During division, the bulbs are carefully dug up and any offsets—small bulbs that form around the base of the mother plant—are gently separated. These offsets usually have their own roots and can be replanted immediately. It's important to ensure that each new bulb is planted at a depth of about 3 inches (approximately 7.6 centimeters) to encourage successful growth. This is a reliable way to propagate snowdrops as it maintains the characteristics of the parent plant and is quite straightforward, even for novice gardeners.
