Chionodoxa - Glory of the Snow

Family: Hyacinthaceae

Common Name(s): Glory of the Snow

Native to: Eastern Mediterranean region

Flowering: Spring

Watering: Ensure the soil is moist during Spring to promote growth

Planting Aspect: Full Sun, Part Shade

Preferred Climate:

 

Temperate, Grassland

Description

Chionodoxa bulbs produce between 1 and10 brightly coloured star shaped flowers borne in loose racemes in late winter to early spring on short stems to 10cm tall. The flower stems are interspersed with often only 2 narrow, thick, stiff and dark green leaves. They are lovely early spring flowers for the rock garden or the front of the border. They are a cold climate bulb, hence the name “Glory of the Snow”.

Cultivation

As their native habitat was on rocky mountain slopes and often covered in snow, the main criterion for successful flowering of Chionodoxa bulbs is a cold winter climate to initiate the flower buds. They should be planted in autumn /early winter, 7 to 8cm deep in a well drained soil with plenty of moisture in winter and spring. Add humus if they are to be planted in sandy soil. The ideal location should be in full sun or light shade. A weak organic liquid fertilizer can be applied during the growing season. To show off the wonderful clarity of the flowers, plant them in mass groupings. They can also be planted in containers to be brought indoors. No particular pests or diseases.