Chionodoxa Alba - Glory of the Snow - ORG

The name ‘glory of the snow’ is surprisingly literal. Chionodoxa alba sometimes makes an appearance whilst there is still a little snow left in the garden. The bright white, star-shaped flowers appear close to the ground and are largely unfazed by the cold. It is one of the earliest-flowering bulbs of the year and, as such, an important source of food for wild bees, bumblebees and other pollinators that are already out and about on the first mild days. Modest in size, but with just enough nerve to be the first to appear.

Sooner than you’d expect

Whilst most spring-flowering plants are still tucked away underground, Chionodoxa Alba has often already begun to bloom. That’s what makes it so valuable. Not only because it brings life at a time when the garden is still mostly grey and cold, but also because it flowers precisely when nectar and pollen are still scarce. Plant the organic glory of the snow in groups and you’ll be rewarded with a carpet of white stars that grows larger every spring. Under trees, amongst perennials, along a path or simply in the lawn; this little powerhouse feels at home almost anywhere.

Plant and enjoy

Plant the organic flower bulbs in the autumn in a sunny to lightly shaded spot in well-drained soil, about 6 to 8 centimetres deep. After that, all you really need is a bit of patience. Once they’ve finished flowering, let the foliage die back naturally, so that the bulbs can store energy for the following season. Chionodoxa Alba naturalises easily and forms larger clusters year after year. These 100% organically grown flower bulbs are cultivated with respect for the soil and biodiversity, so that it’s not just you looking forward to spring, but the first pollinators too.

White doesn’t have to be boring

White flowers sometimes have a reputation for being a bit plain. Chionodoxa Alba proves the opposite. Precisely because it flowers so early, its green foliage and fresh white colour stand out all the more against the bare grass and dark earth. Pair it with blue scillas, purple crocuses or early daffodils and you’ll need little else. Small? Certainly. Unremarkable? Not at all.