Flowering Months:
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Family:
Amaryllidaceae (Amaryllis)
Also in this family:
African Lily, Babington's Leek, Broad-leaved Leek, Crow Garlic, Cyclamen Daffodil, Few-flowered Garlic, Field Garlic, Garlic, Green Snowdrop, Hairy Garlic, Honey Garlic, Hoop-petticoat Daffodil, Keeled Garlic, Leek Lily, Neopolitan Garlic, Onion, Pleated Snowdrop, Poet's Daffodil, Queen Olga's Snowdrop, Rosy Garlic, Round-headed Leek, Sand Leek, Sea Daffodil, Spring Snowflake, Spring Starflower, Summer Snowflake, Tenby Daffodil, Three-cornered Garlic, Wild Daffodil
Maximum Size:
30 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Gardens, parks, roadsides, rocky places, woodland.
Galanthus elwesii, known as Greater Snowdrop or Elwes’s Snowdrop, is one of the largest and most robust snowdrop species. It typically flowers between January and March, slightly earlier than the common snowdrop. Each plant produces a single white, pendulous, bell-shaped flower with three long outer tepals and three shorter inner tepals, which are notched and marked with green. The green markings often form an X or H shape, though they can vary between individuals. Its larger size and earlier bloom time help distinguish it from Galanthus nivalis.
Fruit:
After flowering, Galanthus elwesii forms a small, oval green capsule which contains several seeds. These ripen by late spring or early summer and open naturally to release the seeds onto the ground. Like other snowdrops, the seeds possess elaiosomes, attracting ants which carry them away and aid in seed dispersal (a process known as myrmecochory).
Leaves:
The leaves of Galanthus elwesii are typically broad, glaucous (bluish-grey-green) and up to 20–25 cm long, often appearing at or just before flowering. One of the distinguishing features of this species is the supervolute vernation—where one leaf wraps completely around the other in bud. Their width and colour help distinguish G. elwesii from G. nivalis, whose leaves are narrower and more upright.
Fragrance:
The flowers of Galanthus elwesii are typically unscented or only faintly scented, with some cultivars giving off a subtle honey-like fragrance on warmer days. However, the scent is usually not noticeable unless smelled at very close range, and varies depending on the variety and weather.
Other Names:
Elwes's Snowdrop, Giant Snowdrop.
Frequency (UK):
Occasionally seen
Summary
Galanthus elwesii, commonly known as the giant snowdrop, is a species of perennial flowering plant in the Amaryllidaceae family. It is native to the Caucasus, Turkey and Northern Iran. It typically grows to a height of 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) with a spread of 3-5 inches (8-13 cm). The plant has narrow, linear leaves and large, white, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring. The flowers are larger and more substantial than those of G.nivalis, they have a green “V” shaped mark on the outer three tepals, and a longer stem. This species is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and it prefers well-drained soils, it's also tolerant to cold and shade, it's often used as a ground cover, in mixed borders, naturalized areas and rock gardens. This species is considered as one of the most beautiful snowdrop due to its large flowers, and it's much sought after by collectors.
Blog
The Greater Snowdrop, also known as Galanthus elwesii, is a beautiful and unique flower that is a favorite among gardeners and nature lovers alike. This flower is known for its large, white flowers that bloom in early spring, and its distinctive, elongated leaves.
One of the most striking features of the Greater Snowdrop is its large, white flowers. These flowers are typically about 2 inches in diameter, which is larger than the more common snowdrop, Galanthus nivalis. They have six petals that are arranged in a star-like shape, and the flowers are also fragrant, making them a favorite among those who enjoy the scent of fresh flowers.
The leaves of the Greater Snowdrop are also unique and distinctive. They are elongated and narrow, and are typically about 8 inches long. They are typically green in color, and they have a slight curve at the tip which gives them a unique shape.
The Greater Snowdrop is a hardy plant that can be grown in a variety of soils and climates. They are typically planted in the fall, and will bloom in early spring. They are also easy to care for and require little maintenance. They are perfect for naturalizing, and will spread and multiply over time.
In addition to its beauty and ease of care, the Greater Snowdrop also has a special significance in many cultures. It is often associated with new beginnings and hope, and is often given as a gift to symbolize renewal and optimism.
One thing to note is that Greater Snowdrop is less common than the common snowdrop, and can be difficult to find in nurseries or garden centers, but they can be found in some specialty bulb catalogs.
Overall, the Greater Snowdrop is a beautiful and unique flower that is a great addition to any garden. Its large, white flowers and distinctive elongated leaves make it stand out from other spring-blooming bulbs and add a touch of elegance and charm to your landscape.
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