common snowdrop
ExplorePlants
common snowdrop
Galanthus nivalis
The common snowdrop is a lovely flower that blooms early in spring. Its white petals look like little drops of snow, making it a cheerful sight after winter!
Habitat: Woodlands
Appearance
The common snowdrop has delicate, nodding, bell-shaped white flowers. Each flower typically features three larger outer petals and three smaller inner petals with green markings at their tips. It grows from a bulb, sporting slender, grey-green leaves.
KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassLiliopsidaOrderAsparagalesFamilyAmaryllidaceaeGenusGalanthus
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
2/5 · Low
Snaps
Be the first to snap!
Interesting facts
An important medicine, galanthamine, originally came from snowdrop bulbs and helps with memory.
Each tiny seed has a tasty treat called an elaiosome that ants love, helping them spread the seeds around!
Its scientific name, 'Galanthus nivalis,' means 'milk flower of the snow,' perfect for its appearance!
Snowdrops were first introduced to the UK by monks in the 16th century, spreading across Europe.
Special abilities
Ability
Winter Warrior
The common snowdrop can produce its own heat, melting snow around it to bloom earlier than other plants.
Ability
Frost Fighter
Snowdrops contain natural 'antifreeze' proteins that protect their cells from damage in freezing temperatures.
Ability
Bitter Bite
This plant has special chemicals called alkaloids that make it taste bad to animals, keeping it safe from hungry nibblers.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 10-25 cm
- Spread
- 5-10 cm
- Flower Size
- 2-3 cm
- Bloom Season
- Late winter to early spring
- Edible
- No
- Toxicity
- Mild
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Pollination Method
- Insect
Ecological connections
pollinates
European honey bee
Apis mellifera
Visits early flowers for nectar and pollen.
pollinates
Buff-tailed bumblebee
Bombus terrestris
One of the first insects active in cold weather.
eaten by
Spanish slug
Arion lusitanicus
May feed on leaves or flowers if available.
eaten by
Common vole
Microtus arvalis
Can dig up and consume snowdrop bulbs.
Traits
Flowering
Flowering plants are any plants that produce flowers as part of their reproductive cycle.
Shade Tolerant
Shade tolerant plants are adapted to grow and thrive in areas with low light levels, requiring less direct sunlight.
Spring Blooming
Spring blooming plants produce their flowers during the spring season, often signifying the end of winter and the start of new growth.
Cold Hardy
Cold hardy plants are able to withstand low temperatures and freezing conditions without significant damage.
Fragrant Flower
Fragrant flowers emit a pleasant aroma, often to attract pollinators or for defense.
Pollinator Magnet
Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Also known as
Snowdrop Flower
Collections
Safety
Danger
2/5 · Low
Do not eat any part of the snowdrop, as it can make you feel sick.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is common snowdrop?
10-25 cm
How wide does common snowdrop spread?
5-10 cm
How big are the flowers on common snowdrop?
2-3 cm
When does common snowdrop bloom?
Late winter to early spring
Is common snowdrop edible?
No
Is common snowdrop toxic?
Mild
What is common snowdrop's lifecycle?
Perennial
How is common snowdrop pollinated?
Insect
Snap Map
Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.
Loading map…
Recent Snaps
Recent snaps will appear here as new observations are added.
_Phlox_paniculata_famous_light_purple_-_Les_Martels%2C_Giroussens_Tarn.jpg&width=800)
