Snowdrop
Galanthus nivalis
Family: Amaryllidaceae · Also called Common Snowdrop, Milk Flower, Fair Maid of February, Galanthus nivalis var. scharlockii, Galanthus nivalis var. major, Galanthus nivalis var. hololeuca
Green & Fresh · Winter bloomer
The snowdrop is hope made visible, a tiny white bell that pushes through frozen ground when nothing else dares bloom. Three outer petals flare open to reveal an inner cup marked with a green horseshoe, an elegant simplicity that belies the flower's toughness. Snowdrops produce their own antifreeze, allowing them to bloom in sub-zero temperatures.
hope, consolation, purity, rebirth
In the Victorian language of flowers, snowdrop means “Hope and consolation”. Snowdrops are the first flowers of the year in much of Europe, often blooming through actual snow. In Christian tradition, they represent Candlemas (February 2) and the purification of the Virgin Mary. 'Galanthophilia', the obsession with collecting rare snowdrop varieties, has driven single bulbs to sell for over £1,500 at auction.
Did You Know?
Snowdrops contain galantamine, now used to treat Alzheimer's disease. Rare varieties can sell for extraordinary prices, a single bulb of 'Golden Fleece' sold for £1,390. There are over 2,500 named cultivars, and dedicated collectors (galanthophiles) are among the most passionate in horticulture.
Deciduous woodlands, meadows, and stream banks across Europe
Snowdrop is native to Europe. It naturally grows in deciduous woodlands, meadows, and stream banks across europe.
Scent Profile
“A faint, cool green sweetness with honey notes, you have to get close to catch it, a scent as fleeting as its season.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NameGalanthus nivalis
- FamilyAmaryllidaceae
- Native ToEurope
- Bloom SeasonWinter
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
Snowdrops are the first flowers of the year in much of Europe, often blooming through actual snow. In Christian tradition, they represent Candlemas (February 2) and the purification of the Virgin Mary. 'Galanthophilia', the obsession with collecting rare snowdrop varieties, has driven single bulbs to sell for over £1,500 at auction.