Double Snowdrop Galanthus nivalis f. pleniflorus 'Lady Elphinstone' (d)
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the double snowdrop, specifically the 'Lady Elphinstone' variety, is a charming perennial that heralds the arrival of spring with its striking flowers. This variant is distinctive for its full double flowers, which give it a plush, ruffled appearance compared to the more common single bloom snowdrops. The flowers are characterized by white outer petals that encapsulate additional inner petals with unique green markings. These inner petals can occasionally exhibit a hint of yellow, adding to the visual appeal of the flower. The foliage of the double snowdrop 'Lady Elphinstone' consists of slender, dark green leaves that provide a contrasting backdrop to the white blooms. The leaves emerge from the base of the plant, framing the flowers and enhancing their ornamental value. The overall appearance of this plant is delicate and elegant, making it a treasured addition to early spring gardens for its aesthetic contribution and as a symbol of the new season's arrival.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Double Snowdrop, Lady Elphinstone Snowdrop, Greatorex Double Snowdrop
Common names
Galanthus nivalis var. pleniflorus 'Lady Elphinstone', Galanthus nivalis 'Pleniflorus Lady Elphinstone'
ToxicityTo humans
Snowdrop 'Lady Elphinstone' contains compounds that can be toxic when ingested by humans. The plant has alkaloids including galantamine, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain if ingested. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious symptoms such as low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias.
To pets
Snowdrop 'Lady Elphinstone' is also toxic to pets. If ingested, animals may experience similar symptoms to humans, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion of the plant can result in salivation, lethargy, seizures, and cardiac problems. Prompt veterinary attention is recommended if a pet has ingested any part of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Spread
3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Galanthus nivalis, commonly known as snowdrop, has a distinct ornamental value due to its early flowering, often being one of the first plants to bloom in late winter or early spring, heralding the change of seasons.
- Wildlife Attraction: Snowdrops provide an early source of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators emerging at the end of winter when few other food sources are available.
- Ease of Care: These plants are known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal intervention once established in suitable growing conditions.
- Naturalization: Snowdrops can naturalize by bulb offsets and seed dispersal, spreading to form charming drifts of white flowers over time in woodland settings and gardens.
- Symbolism: Snowdrops often symbolize hope and purity, bringing an emotional benefit by uplifting spirits through their delicate appearance in the stark winter landscape.
- Seasonal Interest: They add seasonal interest to gardens at a time when most plants are dormant, providing beauty and variety throughout the year.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: Galanthus nivalis can be used to create natural dyes, although it is not a common source, the greenery can impart a subtle color.
- Garden Aesthetics: The 'Lady Elphinstone' variety, with its double-flowered beauty, is often used to enhance the visual appeal of winter and early spring gardens.
- Photography Prop: Due to their unique appearance, these plants are sometimes specifically planted for use in photography, providing a natural, snowy backdrop for outdoor shoots.
- Folk Art Material: The blooms and leaves may be pressed and used in creating folk art or botanical prints, capturing their intricate details.
- Educational Resource: In botany education, the plant is used to illustrate bulb development and early spring plant behavior in temperate climates.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not commonly consumed, the flowers could be used as a delicate garnish for culinary presentation, provided they are free of pesticides and not taken from protected areas.
- Symbolic Gift: The plant is sometimes given as a gift to symbolize hope and the arrival of spring, embracing its role in folklore and tradition.
- Biology Research: Galanthus nivalis can serve as a research subject in studies on plant adaptation to cold environments and climate change impacts.
- Scented Gardens: While its fragrance is mild, the plant may contribute to the scented profile of a garden designed with an emphasis on olfactory elements.
- Literary Inspiration: Their unique and delicate presence in the garden has inspired poets and writers, often finding their way into literature as symbols of purity and rebirth.
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, which is the common name of Galanthus nivalis, is frequently associated with purity and innocence.
- Hope: Snowdrops are one of the first flowers to bloom at the end of winter, symbolizing hope and the arrival of spring.
- Consolation or Comfort: In the language of flowers, snowdrops can represent consolation or comfort, especially during times of grief or loss.
- New Beginnings: As heralds of spring, snowdrops symbolize new life and new beginnings.
WaterDouble Snowdrops, also known as Galanthus nivalis f. pleniflorus 'Lady Elphinstone', should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season if there isn't significant rainfall. When establishing new bulbs, it’s crucial to keep soil moist to encourage root growth. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again to prevent over-watering and bulb rot. In general, aim for about one gallon of water per square yard every week, adjusting for particularly hot or dry conditions. During dormant periods, usually late spring through fall, watering can often be reduced as the plant is not actively growing.
LightDouble Snowdrops prefer a spot in the garden that offers partial shade to full sun. Ideal lighting conditions will mimic their natural woodland habitat, providing morning sunlight with afternoon shade or dappled light. Too much intense direct sunlight can lead to foliage burn, so it's important to monitor and possibly provide some protection during the hottest part of the day.
TemperatureDouble Snowdrops are cold-hardy plants, thriving in temperatures that range from 35°F to 55°F. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about -20°F and maximum temperatures of approximately 75°F. For optimal flowering, provide a period of cold dormancy during winter as this chilling period triggers bloom formation.
PruningDouble Snowdrops require minimal pruning. After the flowers have faded, allow the leaves to remain in place until they yellow, which allows the plant to photosynthesize and store energy for the next year. Cut back the foliage only after it has died down naturally. Pruning is typically not necessary at any other time.
CleaningNot needed
SoilSnowdrops (Galanthus nivalis 'Lady Elphinstone') thrive in rich, moist, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. A mix of loamy soil with added compost or well-rotted manure and a small amount of sand for improved drainage works best for these plants.
RepottingSnowdrops typically do not need repotting as they are bulbous plants and prefer to be left undisturbed. They can be divided and replanted in the garden if the clumps become too dense, usually after several years.
Humidity & MistingSnowdrops are tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions and do not require any special attention regarding humidity. Typical outdoor humidity levels are sufficient for their growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in cool room with natural light.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleGalanthus nivalis f. pleniflorus 'Lady Elphinstone', commonly known as Double Snowdrop 'Lady Elphinstone', begins its life as a bulb, which lies dormant underground during the summer months. In late winter to early spring, the bulb breaks dormancy and sends up leaves along with a flower stalk that bears the distinctive double, frilly yellow-marked white flowers. After flowering, the leaves photosynthesize and gather energy, which is stored in the bulb for the next season. As the weather warms up in late spring, the foliage yellows and withers away, and the plant goes back into dormancy. During dormancy, the bulb divides and can produce offsets, which can be separated and planted to propagate new plants. The cycle repeats each year, with the plant emerging again from dormancy in the subsequent late winter.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The most popular method of propagating the common snowdrop 'Lady Elphinstone' (Galanthus nivalis f. pleniflorus 'Lady Elphinstone') is through division of its bulbs. This is typically carried out when the plant is dormant, which is usually in late spring to early summer after the foliage has died back. To propagate by division, the clumps of bulbs should be carefully lifted from the soil and gently pulled apart, making sure that each separated bulb has a portion of the basal plate. These individual bulbs can then be immediately replanted at a depth of about 3 to 4 inches (approximately 7.5 to 10 centimeters) and spaced approximately 3 inches (around 7.5 centimeters) apart, allowing enough room for the bulbs to multiply and form new clumps over time. The replanted bulbs will then settle in during the summer, developing roots before winter arrives, and will produce new growth the following spring.
