Snowdrop Galanthus 'Ophelia' (d)
ABOUT
Galanthus 'Ophelia', commonly known as a type of snowdrop, presents an endearing and delicate appearance. This charming perennial typically blooms in the late winter to early spring, providing a gentle reminder that warmer days are ahead. Its gently nodding flowers have a classic snowdrop shape, with outer petals that stand out like elegant, pure white wings. These outer petals encase inner petals that are shorter and usually display a unique green marking at their tips, which adds a touch of contrast to the otherwise snowy whiteness of the bloom. The flowers dangle daintily from slender, arching stalks that emerge from a basal rosette of foliage. The leaves are narrow, strap-shaped, and of a fresh green color. They are softly ribbed, adding texture to the plant's appearance. Although quite unassuming when not in bloom, the emergence of the snowdrop's flowers truly signals the end of winter's sleep, with each blossom being a symbol of hope and renewal. Galanthus 'Ophelia' clusters can create carpets of white in garden areas where they are planted. Despite its delicate appearance, this snowdrop variety is quite hardy and can withstand chilly weather, often pushing through the last vestiges of snow to bloom. Its demure flowers, combined with the lanceolate foliage, form a harmonious and captivating sight fitting for any garden that seeks to celebrate the transition from winter to spring.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Snowdrop, Common Snowdrop, Fair Maid of February, Candlemas Bells, Mary’s Taper, White Ladies, Little Sister of the Snows, Milk Flower.
Common names
Galanthus 'Ophelia'
ToxicityTo humans
Snowdrop (Galanthus 'Ophelia') contains alkaloids such as galantamine, which can be toxic if ingested. Consumption of the plant, especially the bulbs, can lead to symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion can result in cardiac arrhythmia, and neurological symptoms such as confusion, weakness, and tremors. Handling the plant may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Snowdrop (Galanthus 'Ophelia') is toxic to pets if ingested. The plant contains alkaloids like galantamine which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy in animals. In serious cases, it may lead to seizures, ataxia (loss of coordination), and cardiac arrhythmia. RuntimeObjectAdmin
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
3 inches (7.5 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Early flowering - Galanthus 'Ophelia' blooms early in the year, often while snow is still on the ground, providing interest and color during late winter and early spring.
- Attracts pollinators - Despite the cold weather, its flowers attract early-season pollinators such as bees.
- Low maintenance - Snowdrops are generally easy to care for, requiring minimal attention once established in the garden.
- Resistance to pests - Snowdrops are largely resistant to pests and diseases, making them a robust choice for gardeners.
- Naturalizing - They tend to multiply and spread over the years, creating natural drifts without appearing invasive.
- Aesthetic appeal - With their delicate, nodding white flowers, snowdrops add elegance and beauty to winter gardens.
- Hardy - Snowdrops are hardy plants that can tolerate cold winter conditions.
- Ground cover - When planted en masse, snowdrops can provide effective ground cover, suppressing weeds and protecting soil.
- Symbol of hope - Their early flowering is often seen as a sign that spring is approaching, providing a psychological boost during the dreary winter months.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography subject: Snowdrop 'Ophelia' is often used by photographers as a subject to capture the early signs of spring and the delicate beauty of flowers emerging through snow.
- Art inspiration: The elegant shape and pure color of snowdrop 'Ophelia' make it an inspiring subject for painters and illustrators who focus on botanical themes.
- Gardening education: Snowdrop 'Ophelia' can be used in educational programs to teach about plant lifecycles, especially how some plants have adapted to emerge and flower in late winter or early spring.
- Wedding decorations: Because of their association with purity and new beginnings, snowdrop 'Ophelia' can be incorporated into wedding flower arrangements and decors, especially for early spring weddings.
- Symbolism in literature: The snowdrop can be referenced in literature and poetry as a symbol of hope and the return of life after the winter months.
- Conservation awareness: Collections of snowdrop varieties, like 'Ophelia', are sometimes used to raise awareness for plant conservation and biodiversity.
- Eco-friendly confetti: Dried petals of snowdrop 'Ophelia' can be used as a biodegradable confetti alternative for celebrations, reducing environmental impact.
- Botanical jewelry: The flowers of snowdrop 'Ophelia' can be preserved in resin to create unique and delicate pieces of botanical jewelry, such as pendants or earrings.
- Stamp design: The distinctive look of snowdrop 'Ophelia' may be used on postage stamps as part of a botanical series, highlighting the beauty of seasonal flowers.
- Gardening clubs: Snowdrop 'Ophelia' is a popular plant among gardening clubs and societies, which may organize events such as "snowdrop walks" to appreciate and learn more about different varieties.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiSnowdrop is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilitySnowdrop is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: The pristine white color of the Snowdrop flower, which is another name for Galanthus 'Ophelia', is often associated with purity and innocence.
- Hope: Snowdrops are one of the first flowers to bloom at the end of winter, symbolizing the hope and rebirth that comes with spring.
- Consolation: The delicate appearance of the snowdrop can offer a sense of comfort and consolation to those who are grieving or going through difficult times.
- Resilience: Despite their fragile look, snowdrops are hardy plants that can push through frozen ground, symbolizing strength and the ability to persevere through challenges.
WaterSnowdrops, including the variety Galanthus 'Ophelia', generally prefer evenly moist soil, especially when they are actively growing. During their blooming period in late winter to spring, water them with approximately one inch of water per week. Adjust watering if rainfall contributes to soil moisture. In dry periods, you may need to water them once or twice a week, especially if they are planted under trees which might absorb much of the available water. Once the foliage begins to die back after flowering, reduce watering as the bulbs enter dormancy for the summer.
LightSnowdrops like Galanthus 'Ophelia' thrive best in partial shade to full sun. They are often found naturally in woodland settings where they receive dappled sunlight, so a similar environment would be ideal. However, they can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates, provided they are not exposed to the intense midday heat.
TemperatureSnowdrops, including Galanthus 'Ophelia', can tolerate winter temperatures down to around 10°F and are quite hardy. They flourish in cooler climates and prefer a temperature range between 35°F and 65°F for optimal growth. They are less tolerant of high heat and may not survive prolonged temperatures above 75°F.
PruningPruning is typically not necessary for Snowdrops like Galanthus 'Ophelia', as they are small and have a natural growth habit. However, it's beneficial to remove spent flowers to conserve the plant's energy. Do not cut back the foliage until it has completely yellowed and died back naturally, which usually happens by late spring; this allows the bulbs to store energy for next year's growth.
CleaningNot needed
SoilSnowdrops, like Galanthus 'Ophelia', thrive best in organically rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of about 6.5 to 7.2. A good mix consists of loamy soil, leaf mold or compost, and some sand or perlite for improved drainage.
RepottingSnowdrops, including Galanthus 'Ophelia', rarely need repotting and do better left undisturbed. They can be lifted and divided after several years if clumps become too crowded, generally done after flowering in late spring.
Humidity & MistingSnowdrops such as Galanthus 'Ophelia' are outdoor plants and are not particularly humidity sensitive, tolerating the natural humidity levels found in their outdoor environment.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Snowdrops in cool, bright location; minimal indoor cultivation.
Outdoor
Plant Snowdrops in partial shade, fertile, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleGalanthus 'Ophelia', commonly known as Ophelia snowdrop, begins its life cycle with the germination of its bulb, typically in late winter or very early spring, emerging through the snow or cold soil. The plant then produces strap-shaped leaves and a single flower stalk, which bears a nodding, white flower marked with unique green patterns that distinguish it from other snowdrop varieties. After flowering, usually in late winter to early spring, the plant undergoes pollination, most likely through insect visitors such as bees. Following successful pollination, the ovary develops into a capsule containing seeds, which mature as the foliage begins to die back. The seeds are then dispersed, often with the aid of ants attracted to a fatty appendage on the seeds, facilitating the spread of the plant. The bulb enters a period of dormancy throughout the summer months, conserving energy to repeat the cycle the following year.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
Galanthus 'Ophelia', commonly known as Snowdrop 'Ophelia', is best propagated by dividing the bulbs, also referred to as offsets, after they have finished flowering and the leaves start to yellow, typically in late spring to early summer. To propagate by dividing, you carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and gently separate the offsets from the parent bulb. Each offset should have at least one growing point or shoot. Replant the offsets immediately at the same depth they were previously growing, approximately 3 to 4 inches deep (approximately 7.5 to 10 centimeters), and about 3 inches apart (approximately 7.5 centimeters). This method ensures genetic consistency and is preferred by gardeners for its simplicity and effectiveness.
