Snowdrop
ExplorePlants
Snowdrop
Galanthus nivalis
Snowdrop is one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, often peeking through the snow. Its delicate white petals look like little drops of snow.
Habitat: Woodlands and gardens
Appearance
The Snowdrop has delicate, nodding white flowers, each with three outer petals curving over three smaller inner petals often marked with a green 'V' or spot. Its slender, grey-green leaves emerge from the ground before the blooms, creating a striking contrast against winter landscapes.
KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassLiliopsidaOrderAsparagalesFamilyAmaryllidaceaeGenusGalanthus
Category
PlantsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Each bulb splits into new ones, making beautiful carpets of white flowers!
Snowdrops produce a natural 'antifreeze' allowing them to bloom in icy conditions!
Some rare snowdrop varieties can have bright yellow markings instead of green!
They contain chemicals that scientists are researching for new medicines.
Special abilities
Ability
Winter Bloomer
Snowdrop has a special 'antifreeze' protein that helps its cells survive freezing temperatures, allowing it to bloom in winter.
Ability
Heat Generator
Snowdrop can generate a tiny amount of heat, melting surrounding snow to emerge and attract early insect pollinators.
Ability
Energy Hoarder
Snowdrop stores energy in an underground bulb, allowing it to sprout quickly after winter and survive harsh conditions.
Measurements & details
- Height
- 10-25 cm
- Spread
- 5-10 cm
- Flower Size
- 2-3 cm
- Bloom Season
- Late Winter/Early Spring
- Edible
- No
- Toxicity
- Mild
- Lifecycle
- Perennial
- Pollination Method
- Insect
Ecological connections
pollinates
Honey bee
Apis mellifera
gathers early nectar and pollen
eaten by
Black slug
Arion ater
grazes on its leaves and flowers
eaten by
Field vole
Microtus agrestis
digs up and eats its bulbs
Traits
Perennial
Perennial plants live for more than two years, typically returning to grow and bloom each year from their roots.
Bell-Shaped Flower
Bell-shaped flowers possess petals fused or arranged to form a cup-like or campanulate structure resembling a bell.
Winter Interest
Winter Interest refers to plants that provide aesthetic appeal through their foliage, bark, berries, or structure during the winter season.
Spring Blooming
Spring blooming plants produce their flowers during the spring season, often signifying the end of winter and the start of new growth.
Fragrant Flower
Fragrant flowers emit a pleasant aroma, often to attract pollinators or for defense.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Also known as
Galanthus
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Explore with care and ask an adult if you’re unsure what to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Snowdrop?
10-25 cm
How wide does Snowdrop spread?
5-10 cm
How big are the flowers on Snowdrop?
2-3 cm
When does Snowdrop bloom?
Late Winter/Early Spring
Is Snowdrop edible?
No
Is Snowdrop toxic?
Mild
What is Snowdrop's lifecycle?
Perennial
How is Snowdrop pollinated?
Insect
Snap Map
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Recent Snaps
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