Snowdrop, Common Snowdrop

Galanthus nivalis

Physical Characteristics

Galanthus nivalis is a BULB growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf from January to June, in flower from February to March, and the seeds ripen from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, the Netherlands to the Pyrenees, east to N. Syria, S. E. Russia, W. Asia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Meadow;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Emmenagogue The plant is emmenagogue[4].

Known Hazards

The bulb is somewhat poisonous[100, 200]