One of the first signs of spring in my garden is when the snowflakes (Leucojum aestivum) begin to bloom. They are sometimes called summer snowflakes, even though they bloom in the early spring and not in the summer. Most people refer to these beauties as Leucojum.
Common names can be confusing as I grew up calling them snowdrops, which is incorrect as that common name usually refers to Galanthus species.
What’s the Difference Between Snowflakes and Snowdrops?
- Snowflakes (Leucojum aestivum) are beautiful, long-lived perennial bulbs with bell-shaped white flowers tipped with green dots that bloom in the late winter or early spring. It’s nostalgic for me as my original bulbs came from the ruins of my great-grandmother’s garden.
- Snowdrops (Galanthus species) bloom earlier and have a solitary, bell-shaped flower with green markings on the inner part of the bloom.
Snowflakes (Leucojum aestivum) have multiple white bell-shaped flowers tipped with green dots on a single stem.
Barbara H. Smith, ©2025 HGIC, Clemson Extension
Snowdrops (Galanthus species) have smaller, solitary blooms that are white with green markings on the inner part of the flower.
Barbara H. Smith, ©2025 HGIC, Clemson Extension
How to Grow and Care for Leucojum
Native to Asia and Europe, snowflakes are in the Amaryllidaceae family. The genus name Leucojum comes from the Greek meaning white flowers. They are hardy in USDA planting zones 4 to 8, and these beautiful bulbs will grow in full sun to part shade in well-drained, organically rich soils.
They can grow up to 2 feet tall and have emerald-green, glossy foliage. Plant the bulbs in the fall, 4 to 5 inches deep and 4 to 6 inches apart.
Snowflakes have emerald-green, glossy foliage that brightens up the garden.
Barbara H. Smith, ©2025 HGIC, Clemson Extension
How to Care for Leucojum After Blooming
After they finish blooming, do not cut back the foliage. Allow it to turn yellow and dry naturally before you remove the leaves. This allows the foliage to manufacture stored food for the bulb to bloom the following year.
Landscape & Decorative Uses for Leucojum
Leucojum bulbs are excellent choices for naturalizing in large masses in borders or flower beds. Once planted, they do not like to be disturbed. They don’t have any serious insect or disease problems, except for root rot issues if planted in soils that stay too wet. They are deer- and rabbit-resistant, so Bambi and Thumper usually leave them alone.
Mass plantings of Leucojum bulbs are an excellent choice for naturalizing in a border or flower bed.
Barbara H. Smith, ©2025 HGIC, Clemson Extension
Leucojum As a Cut Flower
They make an excellent cut flower to mix with other flowers or to use alone in a “special little moment” to brighten up a spot in your home.
The bell-shaped flowers provide a different texture and shape in a mixed arrangement.
Barbara H. Smith, ©2025 HGIC, Clemson Extension
A small vase filled with Leucojum flowers gives a “special little moment” touch to a table.
Barbara H. Smith, ©2025 HGIC, Clemson Extension
