A unique snowdrop originating in Caucasus and Turkey, Galanthus woronowii is a real crowd pleaser for the late winter/early spring garden. This large snowdrop has distinctive features that makes it a very worthwhile garden variety with easy cultivation requirements for the ordinary gardener, but which is still unusual enough to please serious snowdrop collectors.
Also known as the ‘Giant Snowdrop’, it is bigger and bolder than our native snowdrop in both foliage and flowers, but it remains a petite plant that reaches only 15cm tall. Unlike the thin, glaucous leaves of our native snowdrop, Galanthus woronowii bears broader, shiny leaves whose bright green colour provides a very effective contrast against the classic white flowers. Each of the relatively large flowers bears signature fresh green markings on its inner segments – these resemble a bold letter C lying on its side, often with a flattened top.
Bolder than the British native snowdrop, it looks effective even when planted in small groups, the flowers providing welcome interest in January and February when little else is happening in the garden. The broad leaves are up to 25cm, lie close to the ground and remain fresh for some time after flowering has finished providing effective ground cover between groups of emerging spring perennials. It is well suited to growing under the shade of deciduous trees or in a raised bed or rock garden in light shade. This snowdrop will naturalise readily forming larger drifts each year. RHS Award of Garden Merit. Height: 15cm (6in). Spread: 10cm (4in).
Growing Information
Plant snowdrops in the dappled shade of deciduous trees. Snowdrop bulbs thrive in reliably moist, well drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Add plenty of well rotted manure or garden compost to the soil prior to planting to improve less than ideal soils. Plant bulbs at a depth of 10cm (4") and a distance of 10cm (4") apart. For natural looking drifts of snowdrop flowers, gently cast them across the planting area and plant them where they land!
Galanthus woronowii naturally grows in areas with high rainfall but enjoys a very well-drained soil. Grow in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil that does not dry out in summer – avoid sunbaked spots. If growing in troughs, raised beds or rock gardens choose a spot with light shade.
