Leucojum vernum, commonly known as the spring snowflake, is a perennial bulbous plant belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family. Native to Europe and western Asia, it thrives in damp meadows, woodlands, and along riverbanks. The plant features narrow green leaves that can grow up to 30 cm in length and produces clusters of bell-shaped white flowers with green tips. These flowers bloom in early spring, from February to April, before the leaves fully develop.
While the bulbs of the spring snowflake are poisonous if ingested, they have historically been used for their diuretic properties in medicinal practices. Additionally, these plants are popular as ornamental plants, prized for their delicate beauty and early blooming period, offering a welcome sight after the long dormancy of winter.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Leucojum
- Family
- Amaryllidaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 3-8
- Mature Height
- 30 cm
- Mature Spread
- 10 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early spring, Mid spring
- Planting Time
- Autumn, Winter, Spring
- Harvest Time
- Mid spring, Late spring
- Native Area
- Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Poland, Hungary, Croatia, Slovenia, Belgium, Ukraine, France
Other names.
