Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis)

Also known as: Fair maids of February, Purification flower, Candlemas lily

The Lily of the Valley is a symbol of spring, growing to heights of 7 to 15 cm. Emerging from bulbs, it features delicate, drooping bell-shaped white flowers and is accompanied by two slender, upright leaves. This charming flower has historical mentions dating back to the fourth century.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Snowdrop

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

7 cm to 15 cm

Spread

5 cm to 10 cm

Leaf Color

Green Gray Silver

Flower Size

6 mm to 1.1 cm

Flower Color

White Green

Images of Snowdrop

Quickly Identify Snowdrop

Basal lanceolate leaves, 4-8 inches long (10-20 cm).

Singular, pendulous flower with green-tipped inner tepals.

Bell-shaped white flowers with 6 tepals, outer oblong, inner shorter.

Nearly spherical capsule fruit, 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) in diameter.

Linear greyish-green leaves, 3.5 inches long (9 cm).

Scientific Classification of Snowdrop

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Asparagus and allies

Family

Amaryllis

Genus

Snowdrops

Species

Snowdrop

Planting and Growing of Snowdrop

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

45-65℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Snowdrop?

When watering Galanthus nivalis, it's crucial to ensure the soil is moderately moist without being soggy. Aim for about 200 ml of water, which allows for consistent soil moisture levels necessary for healthy growth. The soil should feel moist when touched but should not have standing water.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Snowdrop? ›

What should I do if my Snowdrop is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Snowdrop? ›

How to save an overwatered Snowdrop? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Snowdrop?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours daily

Partial sun is ideal for Galanthus nivalis as it allows for sufficient light to promote photosynthesis and flowering, while protecting the plant from extreme heat, maintaining optimal health and beauty.

Best Season for Ideal Lighting ›

Best Time of Day for Exposure ›

Positioning for Optimal Light ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Snowdrop?

Ideal Temperature: 45 ~ 65℉

For optimal growth, Galanthus nivalis thrives in temperatures ranging from 45°F to 65°F. This temperature range replicates the cool, temperate climates in which snowdrops naturally occur. Providing these conditions ensures healthy leaf and stem development and supports the plant's flowering process. It's important that these temperatures are maintained consistently to mimic their native woodland and meadows environment.

What Soil is Best for Snowdrop?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Galanthus nivalis thrives in well-drained soil, which helps prevent root rot and promotes healthier growth. Ensuring excess water can easily escape mimics the plant's natural habitat, allowing it to flourish during its growing season. This plant loves moisture, ensuring consistent humidity in the soil is vital. Moist conditions provide the nourishment Galanthus nivalis needs, especially during warmer months. Mulching can help maintain the necessary moisture levels. Rich in nutrients, fertile soil fosters optimal growth and vigorous blooming in Galanthus nivalis. Incorporating organic matter like compost can enrich the soil, providing essential nutrients that support the plant's development. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Snowdrop?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

The snowdrop, Galanthus nivalis, is a hardy plant that requires a balanced approach to fertilizing. It benefits from light applications of fertilizers, especially during the growing season. A 10-10-10 balanced liquid fertilizer should be diluted to half-strength and applied carefully to avoid over-fertilization, roughly two times a month. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Snowdrop?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

After the snowdrops have finished blooming in the spring, allow the leaves to wither naturally and only prune them once they have yellowed and dried. This ensures the bulbs have absorbed enough nutrients through photosynthesis. Cut off the spent flowering heads right after blooming to prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production. This redirection of energy encourages better bulb development for the next season. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Snowdrop plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Wait for the seed pods of Galanthus nivalis to ripen and turn brown. Carefully collect them before they burst open, scattering the seeds. Store them in a cool, dry place until you're ready to plant.

Use well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Ensure the soil is loose and free of debris to allow for good root growth. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral for optimal plant health.

When dividing clumps, gently separate the bulbs. Plant them approximately 2-3 inches deep and 3 inches apart. Ensure each bulb's pointed end faces upwards to promote correct growth and flowering.

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How to Repot Snowdrop plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Look for signals like roots growing out of the pot's drainage holes or soil that dries out quickly. In these cases, it's time to consider repotting. Also, if the plant appears stunted or the leaves start yellowing sooner than usual, these could be signs that your Galanthus nivalis needs more space.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one to provide adequate room for growth. Ensure it has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. The material can be clay or plastic but ensure it retains moisture while allowing air to circulate around the roots. A lightweight pot is easier to handle and encourages better root development.

Opt for a well-draining, loamy soil mix which is supplemented with organic matter. This type of soil ensures that excess water runs off easily and does not lead to root rot. The organic content provides nutrients and encourages healthy growth and flowering, supporting the plant's delicate structure.

Toxicity of Snowdrop

Is Snowdrop toxic to humans?

Snowdrops can induce toxic responses in humans if consumed in significant quantities. The resultant symptoms are generally mild, usually leading to discomfort. The flowers, leaves, and roots of the plant contain an alkaloid called lycorine, which imparts toxic characteristics to these parts. Ingesting these sections of the plant may lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. Given that snowdrops are ornamental plants often located in gardens near residences, they might grow within reach of children who could inadvertently consume parts of the plant.

Is Snowdrop toxic to cat?

Snowdrop presents a toxicity hazard for cats. Ingesting any portion of this plant can lead to accidental poisoning in felines, which may cause various symptoms of distress and illness. Every part of the snowdrop is considered toxic, so it is crucial to prevent cats from accessing any part of it. Should a cat show any atypical symptoms following exposure to or ingestion of snowdrop material, it is essential to obtain urgent veterinary care to safeguard their health and safety.

Is Snowdrop toxic to dog?

Snowdrop is identified as a toxic plant for dogs. If dogs ingest any component of the snowdrop, they can suffer from poisoning since all parts of the plant possess toxic qualities. Consumption, even in minimal quantities, can lead to various symptoms, which may include vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, and potentially more severe manifestations such as seizures or heart-related issues. Therefore, dog owners must remain alert and keep their pets away from regions where snowdrop is present. Should a dog consume snowdrop, it is vital to seek prompt veterinary assistance to secure the best possible recovery for the affected pet.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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