Growing Snowflake (Leucojum)

Life Cycle: perennial bulb

Planting Time: fall

Height: 6" to 14"

Exposure: full sun to partial shade (in warmest areas)

Soil: rich, moist soil; prefers moist soil all year long

Hardiness: zones 4 to 9

Bloom Time: spring to early summer (or after snowmelt in its native habitat)

Flower: slightly fragrant, small, white, bell-shaped flowers that have a green (or sometimes yellow) spot near the tip of each petal.

Foliage: green, narrow, blade-like leaves

Propagation: division or seeds

Suggested Use: beds, borders, groundcovers, edgings and mass plantings

Growing Hints: Plant bulbs in the fall 3 to 4 inches deep at intervals of 8 to 10 inches. Snowflakes require plenty of moisture throughout the year (even during the dormant period) and prefer sites with full exposure to the sun, with the exception of the warmest zones, where they benefit from the protection of light shade. Divide clumps after flowering or collect and save seeds.

Interesting Facts: The Snowflake Flower is native to southern Europe, from the Pyrenées to Romania and western Russia. It is the only species currently classified in the genus Leucojum, which in Greek means, "white violet." All parts of a Snowflake Flower are poisonous if ingested.