Galanthus elwesii aka Giant Snowdrop

Taxonomy ID: 13681

Galanthus elwesii, also known as Elwes's snowdrop or greater snowdrop, is a robust herbaceous perennial plant in the Amaryllidaceae family. It is native to the Caucasus and grows from a globose bulb that is 2-3 cm in diameter. The plant produces two blue-green linear leaves and pendulous white flowers that are solitary at the tip of a solid, pointed scape. The flowers are globose, 2-3 cm long, and have outer floral tepals that are oblanceolate with shorter inner tepals that are emarginate. The fruit forms a dehiscent capsule with three valves. Compared to Galanthus nivalis, Galanthus elwesii is a more robust plant. Snowdrop is a rare houseplant that belongs to the Galanthus genus and is native to the Balkans and western Turkey. It thrives with regular watering and does best in direct light less than 1 foot away from a window. The plant prefers well-draining soil and doesn't typically need added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Giant Snowdrop, Greater Snowdrop, Caucasian Snowdrop

More information about Giant Snowdrop

How difficult is it to take care of Giant Snowdrop

Giant Snowdrop is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

What is the growth pattern and size of Giant Snowdrop?

The Giant Snowdrop is a clumping species, with new growth arising from the soil surrounding the parent plant.

What are the water needs for Giant Snowdrop

Giant Snowdrop should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

What is the right soil for Giant Snowdrop

Giant Snowdrop loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

How to fertilize Giant Snowdrop

The Giant Snowdrop should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Is Giant Snowdrop toxic to humans/pets?

Giant Snowdrop is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

What seasonal care does Giant Snowdrop need?

During the cold period, it is common for Giant Snowdrop to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

More info:
Wikipedia