Snowflake Bulbs, Leucojum Gravetye Giant, Perennial

Leucojum aestivum, commonly called summer snowflake, blooms in mid-spring (April-May), but goes dormant by summer. 'Gravetye Giant' is a robust, larger-flowered version of the species. Strap-shaped, glossy dark green leaves (to 16-18” long and 1” wide) form an upright, vase-shaped clump of foliage. Typically 2-5 (less frequently to 8) nodding, bell-shaped, white flowers (each to 1 1/2" long) appear at the top of arching, naked, hollow flower scapes (to 24-30") in spring. Each flower has three similar looking sepals and petals (tepals) that are spotted at the tip with green. Flowers are mildly fragrant. Cultivar name honors Gravetye Manor, the Sussex home of horticulturist and garden writer William Robinson (1838-1935) who introduced this plant.
Garden Uses
Borders, rock gardens. Under trees or shrubs. Pond or stream margins. Best planted in groups of at least 15 bulbs. Can put on a spectacular flowering display when naturalized in large drifts.
GROWING
Snowflake Bulbs are suitable for a variety of soil types, including clay, and require consistent moisture during the spring growth and bloom period. A summer mulch can help keep the soil moist and cool, while the bulbs should be planted 3-4" deep and 4-6" apart in the fall. These bulbs are best left undisturbed once planted as they will naturalize well through bulb offsets.