Galanthus nivalis

Galanthus nivalis, or Snowdrop, is a bulbous perennial native to Europe and southwestern Asia. The plant has 2 or 3 strap-shaped, basal leaves and a solitary flower on a naked stem, 6-parted, white but with inner segments that have a terminal green mark. The inner petals are shorter than the outer three petals. Its flowers are a sure sign that spring is on the way as they bloom from late February to late March, even if snow is present. 

It is easily grown in well-drained organic soils in full sun to partial shade. More moisture is needed if grown in partial shade. It grows particularly well under deciduous trees that provides full sun in early spring, but more shade as the leaves fill in. It prefers cooler climates and may be short-lived when grown south of Zone 7. It naturalizes easily through self-seeding and bulb offsets which can grow into large colonies.  Plant 0-2 in. apart, 60 to 400 per sq. ft., 5 in. to base of the bulb. The plants spread rapidly and are often found in lawns, rock gardens, borders, and flower beds.

Commerce in wild specimens of G. nivalis is heavily restricted to preserve their survival; most nurseries now sell stock raised from artificial propagation of bulb offsets, scale cuttings or seed

Diseases, Insects, and Other Plant Problems:

There are no serious insect or disease problems; however, wear gloves when planting bulbs to avoid possible skin irritation. Leaf scorch can occur if the soil PH is excessively high.