Galanthus nivalis Flore Pleno (Double Snowdrop)

Galanthus nivalis Flore Pleno (Double Snowdrop) – is the beautiful double form of the common snowdrop. They make stunning carpets of flowers in woodlands with their broad pure white flowers. A small white hanging umbrella shaped flower, packed with the delicate green markings underneath. These snowdrops are only 15-20cm high with thin green foliage that can often look silver. They have a distinctive point at the top of the stem to help the flower puncture its way through the frozen ground ready for flowering any time from January to March. It’s hanging head has evolved to protect the pollen inside its cup and keep it dry. It’s an essential food source for early emerging pollinators.

How to plant snowdrop bulbs

As a small bulb it is easy for snowdrops to dry out in baking summer conditions. Although they are happy in the spring sunshine try planting them somewhere shaded. Consider that their natural habitat is in deciduous woodland. Humus rich soil and partial or dappled shade to shelter them from the heat is ideal.

Rather than planting snowdrop bulbs individually, it is often easier to make a small envelope 8cm deep and evenly place the bulbs in. Again, as a wild plant they are naturally clump forming. They look much more natural planted in groups than in rows. Over time Galanthus nivalis Flore Pleno (Double Snowdrop) will spread naturally by bulb division.

Plant in autumn between October and November for early spring flowers. After a few years they may even begin to show in December.

How to plant snowdrops ‘in the green’

Planting ‘in the green’ begins in February. It is often more reliable to plant actively growing snowdrop bulbs. It reduces the risk of them either drying out or getting too wet. When they have foliage we know that it is a successful plant. Although planting ‘in the green’ often means you won’t get flowers until the following year, it is a second chance to get your hands on a limited supply of one of the UK’s favourite flowers. Here is a video explaining why to plant ‘in the green’. Our ‘in the green’ stocks are UK sourced but we use significantly less.