Greater snowdrop (Galanthus elwesii)

Greater snowdrop

Also known as: Elwess snowdrop, Giant turkish snowdrop

Greater snowdrop is a bulb that produces elegant, teardrop-shaped white blooms. If you ever spot them, make sure to take a look inside the bulbs to see their hidden interior green petal and get a whiff of the honey-like scent they produce.

Scientific classification

Species

Greater snowdrop (Galanthus elwesii)

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8 cm to 15 cm

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

1 cm to 2 cm

Flower Size

White

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Winter

Growth Season

Images of Greater snowdrop

Distribution of Greater snowdrop

Distribution Map

Greater snowdrop naturally flourishes in the temperate regions of Southeastern Europe, marking its indigenous presence within Balkans and the adjacent locales. Over time, greater snowdrop has been introduced to Northwestern Europe and is cultivated there, where it has adapted to the local climates and garden settings, extending its range beyond its native habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Roadsides, open forests, abandoned gardens

Quickly Identify Greater snowdrop

Solitary white flowers on 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) tall stems rising through snow.

Bell-shaped flowers with distinctive white tepals and green-marked inner segments.

Tripartite fruit capsules with dry, paper-like texture and small black seeds.

Linear greyish-green leaves up to 4 inches (10 cm) long and 1 1/4 inches (3 cm) wide.

Smooth, green stems emerging from bulbous base, 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) high.

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Care Guide for Greater snowdrop

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Greater snowdrop prefers moist conditions similar to its native habitat, requiring weekly watering to maintain a balanced hydration level. Typically grown outdoors, it thrives during the rainy season, adapting its growth cycle to the availability of rainfall.

Fertilize: For greater snowdrop, use a balanced, slow-release or high-phosphorus fertilizer post-flowering to boost future blooms. Apply annually in early spring at recommended rates, avoiding over-fertilization. Dilute to half strength to prevent root burn, and avoid wet leaves to minimize disease risk.

Pruning: Greater snowdrop is a bulbous perennial that produces delicate spring flowers with green markings. Prune spent stems and yellowing leaves in early to late spring to nourish bulbs, while avoiding green leaves. This practice enhances vigor, prevents disease, and promotes future blooming.

Propagation: Greater snowdrop is a bulbous perennial featuring elegant, nodding white flowers. Propagation involves careful division and immediate replanting of bulbs in well-drained soil, allowing adequate space for growth. Over time, these bulbs form clumps for further division and propagation.

Repotting: Repot greater snowdrop every 2-3 years in late winter for optimal growth, using a slightly larger pot and well-draining soil. Place in bright, indirect light post-repotting, and water regularly to aid recovery while avoiding waterlogging to prevent bulb rot.

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