For many years I called these Snowdrops (Galanthus spp.), which I believe they were labeled when I bought them. But through the wonder of blogging, I have learned that they are actually Snowflakes (Leucojum aestivum)! The difference? Snowdrops have three tepals, Snowflakes have six with green dots on the tips. Regardless of what you call them, I love them. They do very well here is spite of the fact they are listed as cold season bulbs (they do come from Mediteranian climites though, which is what we have here). I planted these many years ago and then just forgot about them and they put on a spectacular show every year when little else is blooming yet. I just need to remember to plant some of them in my SJG Moonlight Garden this fall!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Snowdrops? No, Snowflakes!
For many years I called these Snowdrops (Galanthus spp.), which I believe they were labeled when I bought them. But through the wonder of blogging, I have learned that they are actually Snowflakes (Leucojum aestivum)! The difference? Snowdrops have three tepals, Snowflakes have six with green dots on the tips. Regardless of what you call them, I love them. They do very well here is spite of the fact they are listed as cold season bulbs (they do come from Mediteranian climites though, which is what we have here). I planted these many years ago and then just forgot about them and they put on a spectacular show every year when little else is blooming yet. I just need to remember to plant some of them in my SJG Moonlight Garden this fall!
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12 comments:
I wouldn't know the difference too! Thanks for educating me! They are gorgeous!
For a moment there, I thought you'd experienced some strange weather phenomenon. Your snowflakes are lovely though, and don't seem to mind the warmer climate at all.
They are quite pretty. At least they aren't real snowflakes. I think we are done with the snow here. It was 57F when I woke this morning.
~Randy
I think this is the second time I saw this flower in blog world. Absolutely love it! Sadly this is not something for south florida, where I live...
They are really pretty. Mine usually get nipped by frost
in Z6.
I live in Laguna Hills, I love going down to Laguna Beach and SJC also (great antique store there!). Your flowers are gorgeous!
I planted these here in NJ in the Fall since the claim was they could handle the clay ... no signs yet but I am pumped to see the results. Thanks for posting!
These are lovely and I think I need to plant some as well as some more snowdrops.
I planted these once here in Minnesota - I got foliage for a few years but no blooms, then they disappeared. They sure are beautiful - you are lucky to have them grow for you!
Cheryl
Such dainty little bells, whatever the name. Last fall I planted snowdrops, Galanthus nivalis 'Flore Pleno', and am excited to see them bloom. No sign of them yet, though.
Sheila I had no idea about them !
I have to plant some this Autumn .. I don't know whay I haven't before ;-)
A couple of days ago I saw a grouping of snowflakes in a bed with Asiatic Jasmine. It looked great. I really don't like Asiatic jasmine and the snowflakes add some interest to an otherwise boring bed.
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