Galanthus nivalis f. pleniflorus 'Pusey Green Tips' (d)
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the snowdrop is a charming and delicate flowering plant. Characterized by its unique and attractive features, this particular variety displays elegant, nodding white flowers. Each flower is composed of three outer petals that are pure white, gracefully arching over and protecting the inner petals. These inner segments are distinctive for their green markings at the tips, which give this variety its name, Pusey Green Tips. The green tips add a subtle yet delightful contrast to the otherwise monochromatic flowers. The overall flower shape resembles a droplet, reminiscent of snow falling, which is where the common name originates. The leaves of the snowdrop are slender and green, providing a demure backdrop to the purity of the blooms. This variety is treasured for the fullness of its blooms, as it is a double-flowered form, with extra petals giving a lush, more textured appearance. It is a herald of spring, often one of the first plants to bloom as the season changes.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Double Snowdrop, Snowdrop, Common Snowdrop, Fair Maid of February, Purification Flower, Candlemas Bells.
Common names
Galanthus nivalis var. pleniflorus 'Pusey Green Tips', Galanthus nivalis 'Pusey Green Tips'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant in question is commonly known as the snowdrop. Snowdrops contain a compound called galantamine, which can be poisonous if ingested in large quantities. Symptoms of snowdrop poisoning may include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, ingestion can lead to more severe symptoms like low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac dysfunctions. Handling the plant may also cause skin irritation in some individuals. It's important to avoid ingesting any part of this plant due to its toxic properties.
To pets
The plant commonly known as the snowdrop is also toxic to pets. Similar to humans, if pets ingest the plant, they can suffer from symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and salivation. In severe cases, ingesting snowdrops can cause lethargy, convulsions, and cardiac issues. Cats and dogs are both susceptible to snowdrop poisoning, and it is advisable to keep this plant out of their reach. Pet owners should be cautious and seek veterinary assistance if their pet has ingested any part of the snowdrop plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
Spread
3 inches (7.5 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal - Galanthus nivalis f. pleniflorus 'Pusey Green Tips', commonly known as the double snowdrop, adds delicate beauty to gardens with its unique green-tipped white flowers.
- Early Bloomer - As one of the first flowers to bloom in late winter or early spring, it signals the end of the cold season and heralds the arrival of spring.
- Pollinator Support - It provides a valuable nectar source for bees and other pollinators that are active during the early months of the year.
- Low Maintenance - The double snowdrop is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once established in appropriate conditions.
- Naturalizing - It is capable of naturalizing, meaning it can spread and form colonies over time, creating carpets of white and green in a garden or wooded area.
- Cold Tolerance - This plant is very cold-hardy, making it suitable for colder climates where other early-blooming plants might not thrive.
- Wildlife Habitat - The foliage provides cover for small garden animals and the bulbs can serve as food for creatures such as squirrels.
- Versatility - Suitable for a variety of garden styles, including cottage gardens, rockeries, and woodland gardens, or as underplanting for deciduous trees and shrubs.
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: The flowers of the Snowdrop can be used to make a natural dye for fabric, providing a subtle color.
- Winter Gardens: Snowdrops are a popular choice for winter gardens due to their early flowering, even in snow, providing aesthetic value when few other plants are in bloom.
- Bee Forage: They serve as an early source of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators emerging in late winter or early spring.
- Indicator of Spring: Snowdrops are often used by enthusiasts as phenological indicators to signal the end of winter and the beginning of spring.
- Ephemeral Groundcover: Snowdrops can form a temporary carpet of green and white under deciduous trees, beautifying the garden before the tree leaves emerge and block the sunlight.
- Conservation Significance: These plants can indicate a long-standing and undisturbed habitat, important for ecological studies and conservation efforts.
- Botanical Art: The distinctive appearance of Snowdrops makes them a popular subject for botanical illustration and watercolor artists.
- Education and Study: Snowdrops are used in educational settings to teach about plant biology, particularly bulb growth and development.
- Cultural Symbolism: In some cultures, Snowdrops symbolize hope and the renewal of nature, and they are sometimes incorporated into seasonal festivals and traditions.
- Horticultural Breeding: Snowdrops are subject to breeding programs aiming to produce new varieties with different flower forms and markings to excite plant enthusiasts.
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: Known commonly as Snowdrop, Galanthus nivalis symbolizes purity due to its crisp, white petals that stand out against the darkness of winter soil.
- Hope: Snowdrops are often the first flowers to bloom at the end of winter, symbolizing hope and the promise of things to come as they pierce through the snow.
- Consolation or Comfort: In the language of flowers, snowdrops can represent consolation or comfort, perhaps due to their early appearance providing relief at the end of the cold, barren winter months.
- Bravery: Snowdrops show a great deal of resilience by blooming in harsh winter conditions, representing bravery in adversity.
- New Beginnings/Rebirth: As harbingers of spring, snowdrops symbolize new beginnings or rebirth, reinforcing the idea of starting fresh or the start of a new cycle of life.
WaterSnowdrops, commonly referred to as Galanthus nivalis, require moderate watering during their growing season. They should be watered deeply to soak the soil around the bulbs, but always allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. Generally, watering once a week with approximately 1 gallon of water per square yard should suffice, depending on the soil type and weather conditions. During their dormant period in the summer, reduce watering significantly as these plants prefer a drier resting period. Always ensure good drainage to prevent bulb rot.
LightSnowdrops enjoy dappled sunlight or partial shade. The best spot for these plants would be under deciduous trees where they can receive filtered sunlight in the spring before the trees fully leaf out. Avoid placing snowdrops in full, intense sun, especially in warmer climates, as this can scorch their delicate foliage.
TemperatureSnowdrops thrive in cool to cold climates and are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8. They can survive winter temperatures down to about -40 degrees Fahrenheit and prefer the cooler end of the temperature spectrum, with ideal growing conditions being between 35 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Snowdrops require a period of cold in order to bloom, which makes them well-suited for cooler climates.
PruningPruning snowdrops is generally not required except for the removal of dead or yellowing foliage after the plants have finished flowering. Cutting back the foliage too early can weaken the bulbs, so wait until it has yellowed before removing. This usually occurs late in the spring. No regular pruning is needed as snowdrops are self-cleaning and maintain a tidy appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSnowdrops prefer well-drained, humus-rich soil with a pH of around 6.0 to 7.0. A blend of loam, sand, and organic matter like compost is ideal to facilitate good drainage and provide essential nutrients.
RepottingSnowdrops are often grown in the ground and rarely need repotting. However, if grown in containers, repot only when they are overcrowded, typically every few years.
Humidity & MistingSnowdrops thrive in natural outdoor humidity levels and do not require specific humidity control when planted in the garden.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, cooler temps, ensure pot has drainage.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA.
Life cycleGalanthus nivalis f. pleniflorus 'Pusey Green Tips', commonly known as the double-flowered snowdrop with green-tipped petals, begins its life cycle as a bulb which lies dormant underground during the summer months. In late winter to early spring, the bulb breaks dormancy and sends up shoots, followed by distinctive double white flowers with green-tipped segments that emerge to signal one of the first signs of spring. After pollination, which is often facilitated by early-emerging insects, the plant sets seed in small capsules. Once the flowers have faded, the plant's foliage photosynthesizes and stores energy in the bulb for the next cycle. As the temperatures rise towards summer, the foliage dies back, and the plant enters a period of dormancy, conserving energy within the bulb. The cycle repeats yearly with the bulb growing in size and occasionally producing offsets, which can be separated and planted to grow new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The most popular method of propagation for the common snowdrop, specifically the Galanthus nivalis f. pleniflorus 'Pusey Green Tips', is by dividing the bulbs, also known as offsets. This is typically done when the plants are dormant, which normally is in late spring to early summer after the leaves have died back. Carefully lift the clumps of bulbs with a garden fork, ensuring minimal damage to the bulbs. Then gently separate the offsets from the mother bulb. Each offset should have some roots attached. Replant the offsets immediately at a depth of about 3 inches (approximately 7.5 cm) and space them around 3 inches (approximately 7.5 cm) apart to allow for adequate room for growth. Providing a well-drained soil and a shady to partially shady location mimics their natural woodland habitat and encourages successful establishment.
