Snowdrops (Galanthus spp.) and snowflakes (Leucojum spp.) are both early-blooming, bulbous perennials that thrive in cold climates. While they share similar names and flowering times, they belong to different genera and exhibit distinct botanical characteristics. Understanding these differences is essential for American gardeners aiming to cultivate these plants successfully.
Snowdrops (Galanthus): Snowdrops are part of the Amaryllidaceae family and the Galanthus genus. They are native to Europe and the Middle East, with Galanthus nivalis being the most common species in gardens.
Snowflakes (Leucojum): Snowflakes also belong to the Amaryllidaceae family but are classified under the Leucojum genus. They are native to Europe and Western Asia, with Leucojum aestivum (summer snowflake) and Leucojum vernum (spring snowflake) being popular varieties.
Flowers: Snowdrop flowers are small, pendulous, and typically pure white with green markings on the inner petals. Each flower has three outer tepals and three shorter inner tepals. In contrast, snowflake flowers are larger, bell-shaped, and feature six equal-sized tepals, each tipped with green or yellow spots.
Leaves: Snowdrops have narrow, strap-like leaves that are gray-green in color. Snowflakes, however, produce broader, glossy green leaves that are more robust in appearance.
Height: Snowdrops are generally shorter, reaching 3–6 inches in height, while snowflakes grow taller, with summer snowflakes (Leucojum aestivum) reaching up to 24 inches.
Snowdrops: These are among the earliest bloomers, often appearing in late winter to early spring (February–March). Their flowering period is relatively short, typically lasting 2–3 weeks.
Snowflakes: Spring snowflakes (Leucojum vernum) bloom slightly later than snowdrops (March–April), while summer snowflakes (Leucojum aestivum) flower in late spring to early summer (April–June). Their blooms persist longer, often for 4–6 weeks.
Soil and Light: Both plants prefer moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Snowdrops thrive in partial shade to full sun, while snowflakes tolerate a wider range of light conditions, including full shade.
Hardiness Zones: Snowdrops are hardy in USDA zones 3–8, making them suitable for colder regions. Snowflakes are slightly less cold-tolerant, thriving in zones 4–9, with summer snowflakes preferring warmer climates.
Snowdrops: They naturalize easily by self-seeding or bulb division. Gardeners should plant bulbs in the fall, 2–3 inches deep, and avoid disturbing them once established.
Snowflakes: These plants also propagate through bulbs or seeds but are less aggressive spreaders than snowdrops. Bulbs should be planted 3–4 inches deep in the fall, with occasional division needed to prevent overcrowding.
Both snowdrops and snowflakes are relatively pest-resistant but may occasionally attract slugs or suffer from bulb rot in poorly drained soil. Snowdrops are more susceptible to narcissus bulb fly infestations, while snowflakes are generally hardier against pests.
