Plant guide: Chionodoxa

This delicate little bulb, commonly known as glory of the snow, produces numerous widely open, star-shaped blue flowers with white centres. It is especially well suited to rock gardens, raised beds and containers. The flowers are borne in short spikes, usually with around twelve blooms per stem. The strap-shaped leaves form loose, rather untidy rosettes that soon die back after flowering.

Different species vary slightly in appearance. Chionodoxa luciliae (also known as C. gigantea) grows to about 10 cm tall and bears bright blue flowers with a white centre, up to 4 cm across. Chionodoxa siehei reaches 10–15 cm and has slightly smaller flowers in pale blue, white or purplish pink, with a distinct white eye and golden-yellow anthers. Chionodoxa sardensis is noted for its intense gentian-blue flowers with a very small, almost invisible white centre.

How to plant

Plant Chionodoxa bulbs in autumn. They perform best in free-draining soil and should be planted in small groups for the best visual effect. Bulbs are set at a depth of around 7.5 cm and spaced approximately 7.5 cm apart.

Choose a sunny position if possible, although light shade is also tolerated. These bulbs are ideal for containers, rock gardens, raised beds, the front of borders, or for naturalising in grass.

Flowering period

Flowering occurs very early in spring, sometimes even while snow is still melting. During this time, the star-shaped flowers appear above the emerging foliage, bringing early colour to the garden.

A light application of granular fertiliser in spring may be given, although this is usually only necessary in very poor soil. Watering is rarely needed, except during prolonged dry spells.

Flower stems can be cut as the flowers begin to open and enjoyed indoors, when little else is in bloom.

After flowering

After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally, as this helps the bulbs store energy for the following year. Once the leaves have completely withered, congested clumps can be lifted and divided in early summer. Otherwise, Chionodoxa requires very little maintenance.

Tip

Always ensure good drainage. Chionodoxa bulbs dislike sitting in wet soil, especially during dormancy, and free-draining conditions are key to reliable flowering year after year.