Snowdrops

Harbingers of spring


These hardy flowers have become a familiar indicator of the shifting seasons and a sure sign that warmer weather is on its way

Snowdrops are found across the UK. They favour damp soil and are often found in broadleaved woodland and along riverbanks, but can also be seen in parks, gardens, meadows and scrub. The species normally flowers in January and February, but there are an increasing number of December flowerings being recorded and even the occasional November sighting.

Snowdrops are not native to the UK. It is thought they may have been grown as an ornamental garden plant as early as the 16th century, but were not recorded in the wild until the late 18th century. The snowdrop's native range is mainland Europe.

Source and further information from The Woodland Trust
Snowdrops under a tree

Plant your own snowdrops

The easiest way to establish snowdrops in your garden is to plant them 'in the green'. This means after the flowers have finished but before the leaves have died back.


Coded by Sarah Wilman