Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum

Snowflake

Accepted name: Leucojum aestivum L.

Bulb usually 3-4 cm wide. Leaves strap-like to 40 cm long, 1-1.5 cm wide. Flowering stalk as long as leaves, hollow and winged. Spathe 1, 3-5 cm long, green. Flower cluster of 3-5(7) flowers. Perianth segments 1.5-2 cm long, white with green tips; late spring to early summer. Seeds black without attachments.

Europe to SW Asia

This is the most commonly cultivated of the snowdrops.

 

L. vernum L., Spring Snowflake from central Europe, flowers in early spring, while L. autumnale L.,Autumn Snowflake, has only 1 spathe and flowers in late summer.

Source: Spencer, R.; Hay, A.; Ashburner, W. (2005). Amaryllidaceae. In: Spencer, R.. Horticultural Flora of South-eastern Australia. Volume 5. Flowering plants. Monocotyledons. The identification of garden and cultivated plants. University of New South Wales Press.

Distribution map

Leucojum aestivum subsp. aestivum 'Gravetye Giant'

An exceptionally robust form originally selected by William Robinson.