Leucojum (Giant Snowflake)

Leucojum: A Welcome Sight In The Spring Garden
Leucojum is a member of the Amaryllidaceae family, which also includes its more familiar relative, the Snowdrop. The genus comprises two recognised species: Leucojum ‘Aestivum’ and Leucojum ‘Vernum’. Native to Europe and parts of Western Asia, this perennial bulb has long been prized for its graceful presence in gardens from mid- to late spring. In the wild, it is typically found in damp meadows, wet woodlands, and among reeds along stream banks.
Although the Giant Snowflake is not scented, its reliability in returning year after year makes it a long-standing favourite for naturalising in borders, beneath trees, or near water features. Leucojum is resistant to pests, and deer tend to leave it untouched. It is also valued as a long-lasting cut flower, lending elegance and height to seasonal arrangements. With minimal care, this cultivar brings both charm and resilience to gardens of all sizes.

Leucojum Aestivum Gravetye Giant (Summer Snowflake)
Graceful and subtly striking, Leucojum is known by many names. Take, for example, the variety we offer: Leucojum ‘Gravetye Giant’. The name Leucojum derives from the Greek words leukos (meaning ‘white’) and ion (meaning ‘violet’), a reference to its delicate white blooms tipped with green. The term ‘Gravetye’ honours Gravetye Manor in England, once the home of influential garden writer William Robinson. Robinson was instrumental in popularising this modest yet remarkable flower.

Many gardeners may recognise Leucojum ‘Gravetye Giant’ by its common name, ‘Giant Snowflake’. However, it is also known by other charming names, including ‘Dewdrop’, ‘Snowbell’, ‘Loddon Lily’ and ‘Summer Snowflake’. Despite the reference to summer months in one of its names, this variety reliably blooms from mid- to late spring.

Not Just a Pretty Bloom: The Strength of Loddon Lily
Loddon Lily offers more than just ornamental beauty—it is remarkably adaptable. Tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, it can even thrive in areas with standing water, making it an excellent choice for planting near ponds or in rain gardens. Many gardeners choose to establish large drifts beneath deciduous trees and shrubs, where the plants benefit from the dappled light of late winter and early spring. Suited from cold to mild climates, the Giant Snowflake performs well across a variety of climates, bringing both reliability and refined elegance to the spring garden.

How To Plant Giant Snowflakes For Maximum Effect In Your Garden
To enjoy the graceful blooms of Leucojum in spring, it is important to plant the bulbs at the right time. Aim to plant them in autumn, just before the ground begins to freeze.

Choose a planting area with good drainage and either full sun or partial shade. Do you live in a warmer region? Leucojum benefits from shade or dappled light later in the day, which can help extend its flowering period. Next, dig holes approximately 10 cm deep and 10 cm apart in garden beds. When planting in containers, the bulbs can be spaced slightly closer together. Place the bulbs in the holes, cover them with soil, and water thoroughly to help the dry soil settle around them. Only water regularly during dry spells.

In early summer, after the growing season, allow the foliage to die back naturally, as this supports the bulb’s growth cycle. Watering is not required during this dormant phase. When turned yellow, you may tidy up the leaves, or simply let them decompose naturally. Need more guidance? Read our article ‘How to Grow Leucojum (Giant Snowflakes)’.

Top-Quality Leucojum Gravetye Giant Bulbs For Sale At DutchGrown
Ready to create a dazzling spring garden? At DutchGrown, you'll find carefully selected Leucojum aestivum ‘Gravetye Giant’ bulbs. These are top-sized (12 cm), ensuring strong growth and generous flowering. When you buy bulbs from us, you're not just purchasing a product—you’re becoming part of a proud tradition of excellence rooted in Dutch horticulture. Whether you’re gardening for beauty, heritage, or the quiet joy it brings, we’re here to help you make the most of every season with the finest flower bulbs available. We offer delivery throughout the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions About Leucojum

Is Leucojum A Snowdrop?
Leucojum is not a Snowdrop, though it is closely related. Often referred to as the ‘big brother’ of Snowdrops, Leucojum produces larger, bell-shaped flowers with green tips and grows significantly taller. While snowdrops bloom early in the season, Leucojum flowers from early to late spring, depending on the variety.

Do Leucojum Plants Like Sun Or Shade?
Leucojum plants thrive in full sun or partial shade. In cooler regions, full sun encourages robust growth and abundant flowering. In warmer areas, a little afternoon shade or dappled light can help extend the blooming period and prevent the plants from drying out too quickly. A position beneath deciduous trees, where spring sunlight filters through before the canopy fills, is often ideal for planting.

Where Is The Best Place To Plant Leucojum?
The ideal place to plant Leucojum is in moist, well-drained soil. These bulbs thrive in full sun or partial shade, though in warmer regions, a little afternoon shade can help prolong the flowering period. Suitable planting locations include beneath deciduous trees, beside ponds, at the edge of woodland gardens, or in rain gardens where the soil remains cool and damp. Leucojum is a well-suited choice for a wide range of garden settings.

Does Leucojum Spread?
Leucojum is an excellent naturaliser, gradually spreading over time. Once established, it returns reliably each spring, forming increasingly larger clumps year after year. This makes it a low-maintenance, long-term addition to any garden.