1 / 3Key characteristics
- Family
- Amaryllidaceae
- Height
- Up to 6 inches
- Width
- Up to 4 inches
- Flower color
- White with green markings
- Foliage color
- Gray-green
- Bloom time
- Late winter to early spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; remove spent flowers and allow foliage to die back naturally
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 3 to 8
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees
Bulbs
Galanthus nivalis 'Sam Arnott'
Sam Arnott Snowdrop
Galanthus nivalis 'Sam Arnott' is a beautiful variety of snowdrop known for its pure white flowers that bloom in early spring, often emerging while snow is still on the ground. Native to Europe, this cultivar is known for it larger-than-usual blossoms and excellent hardiness, making it a reliable choice for gardens in colder climates. The blooms typically appear in late winter to early spring, brightening up the garden after a long winter.
Works well in
- Borders
- Cottage Gardens
- Under Trees
- Rock Gardens
- Containers
Companion plants
Heucheras · Lady's mantle · Hellebores · Hardy geraniums · Hostas · Ferns
Design tip
Flowers in the quietest months make this worth a sheltered spot within sight of a window or door. Drift them in uneven groups for a natural look, and interplant with perennials that fill the gap after the leaves die back.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen in the perennial border at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
More bulbs

Tulipa 'Columbus'
Columbus Double Tulip
Blooms reddish-pink to deep rose with creamy yellow highlights
Full sun

Tulipa 'Powderpuff'
Powderpuff Double Tulip
Blooms blush pink to soft shell pink
Full sun

Galanthus elwesii
Giant Snowdrop
Blooms white with green markings
Full sun to partial shade

Narcissus 'Candy Princess'
Candy Princess Daffodil
Blooms greenish-white to bright white petals with a ruffled cup in salmon-pink to pinkish apricot tones
Full sun to partial shade