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greater snowdrop

Galanthus elwesii

The greater snowdrop is a beautiful white flower that blooms in early spring. It often pushes through the snow, bringing a smile to everyone who sees it!

Habitat: Woodlands

Appearance

The greater snowdrop has distinctive large, bell-shaped white flowers, often with a prominent green V-shape or two spots on its inner petals. Its broad, grey-green leaves emerge before the bloom stalks, making it stand out from other snowdrop species.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassLiliopsidaOrderAsparagalesFamilyAmaryllidaceaeGenusGalanthus
greater snowdrop
bell_shaped_flower trait badgeflowering trait badgeornamental trait badgespring_blooming trait badge
greater snowdrop

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

2/5 · Low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Ancient legends say snowdrops grew from Eve's tears!

Its scientific name means 'milk flower' – so pretty!

Snowdrop bulbs can survive underground for ages.

Some chemicals from snowdrops help make medicines!

Special abilities

Ability

Frost Fighter

Greater snowdrop can produce natural antifreeze proteins, helping it bloom beautifully even when temperatures drop below freezing.

Ability

Early Riser

It has a super bulb that stores energy, letting it burst through snow and flower before other plants get enough sunlight.

Ability

Ant Courier

Greater snowdrop has yummy elaiosomes on its seeds that ants love, tricking them into carrying and planting new seeds far away.

Measurements & details

Height
15-30 cm
Spread
5-10 cm
Flower Size
2-3 cm
Bloom Season
Late winter to early spring
Edible
No
Toxicity
Moderate
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

honey bee

Apis mellifera

collects nectar and pollen from flowers

depends on

European fire ant

Myrmica rubra

disperses seeds that have nutritious elaiosomes

eats

large red slug

Arion rufus

may feed on the tender leaves

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

2/5 · Low

Do not eat any part of the snowdrop, as it can be harmful.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is greater snowdrop?

15-30 cm

How wide does greater snowdrop spread?

5-10 cm

How big are the flowers on greater snowdrop?

2-3 cm

When does greater snowdrop bloom?

Late winter to early spring

Is greater snowdrop edible?

No

Is greater snowdrop toxic?

Moderate

What is greater snowdrop's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is greater snowdrop pollinated?

Insect

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