Summer snowflake
Leucojum aestivum · Amaryllidaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant summer snowflake: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Flowering
- April to May
- Adult size
- 30 to 40 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (-15°C)
- Origin
- Central and Mediterranean Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, moist during growth
Care
Exposure
Plant summer snowflake in a sunny to partially shaded location. It tolerates damp spots near water features or in meadows well. A bright exposure promotes better flowering.
Soil and planting
Choose well-drained soil that remains fresh during the growth period. Plant bulbs 10-15 cm deep in autumn (September to November). Space them 10-15 cm apart to create harmonious clusters.
Watering
Keep the soil slightly moist from autumn through spring during growth and flowering. After the foliage wilts, gradually reduce watering. In naturally fresh or clay soil, supplementary watering is rarely necessary.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer is generally not essential if the soil is of good quality. If needed, apply a balanced or specialized bulb fertilizer in early spring to support flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
Let the foliage die back naturally after flowering (6 to 8 weeks) to replenish the bulb's reserves. Remove only spent flowers if desired. Bulbs can remain in place for several years without division.
Pests and diseases
Summer snowflake is rarely susceptible to diseases. Watch out for stagnant water excess which can cause bulb rot. In overly compact and damp soil, good drainage is essential to prevent fungal problems.
Did you know?
Despite its name 'summer' snowflake, it actually flowers in spring (April-May), likely because it flowered later in the Mediterranean regions from which it originates. It is also called 'summer snowdrop' and has been cultivated in European gardens since the Renaissance.
Where to buy it
Plant the bulbs in autumn for spring flowering. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: from September to November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.