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Key characteristics

Family: Amaryllidaceae
Height: 12-18 inches
Width: Bulbs can spread and form clumps over time
Flower color: White with green spots at the tips of the petals
Foliage color: Glossy green
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Water: Prefers moist, well-draining soil
Maintenance: Relatively low maintenance
Growing zone: Hardy in USDA zones 4-9
Wildlife: Butterflies are attracted to the flowers; deer and other browsing animals tend to avoid them due to their toxic nature

Bulbs

Leucojum aestivum

Summer Snowflake

Leucojum aestivum, commonly known as summer snowflake, is a bulbous perennial native to Europe, featuring glossy green, strap-like leaves that emerge in spring and die back in summer. The plant's main attraction is its solitary, drooping, bell-shaped flowers, which appear in late spring to early summer, characterized by white petals with green tips resembling drops of snow. Known for its resilience, Leucojum aestivum can thrive in various growing conditions and naturalizes well, forming clumps over time.

Light

Partial shade to full sun

Water

Prefers moist, well-draining soil

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Cottage Gardens
Under Trees
Containers
Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Japanese anemones · Bleeding hearts · Catmint · Heucheras · Lady's mantle · Hellebores

Design tip

The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Drift them in uneven groups for a natural look, and interplant with perennials that fill the gap after the leaves die back.