About

Leucojum is a small genus of bulbous plants native to Eurasia belonging to the amaryllis family, subfamily Amaryllidoideae. As currently circumscribed, the genus includes only two known species, most former species having been moved into the genus Acis. Both species are known as snowflakes.

Leucojum is a compound of Greek λευκος, leukos "white" and ἰόν, ion "violet". The spelling Leucoium is also used. In addition to the common name snowflakes, the two Leucojum species are also known as St. Agnes' flower, for the patron saint of virgins and gardeners, and snowbells.

How to grow it

The two species of Leucojum have been described as "tough garden plants for damp soils". Both grow well in gardens in western Europe, with sufficient rainfall so that the soil does not dry out completely in summer. L. aestivum, the summer snowflake, grows particularly well on clay soils. L. vernum, the spring snowflake, is easy to grow in moist sunny or semi-shady places and flowers along with snowdrops. Re-planting soon after lifting is recommended. Bulbs that have dried out either fail to grow or take a long time to establish. The plant can be propagated from seed as well as by division. Seeds require a period of cold in order to germinate and take 4–5 years to reach flowering size.

Bulbs may be attacked by the narcissus bulb fly (Merodon equestris). Flowers may be eaten by slugs and snails. Infection of the leaves by the fungus Peyronellaea curtisii (syn. Stagonospora curtisii) can also kill plants.

Where it grows

Leucojum is native to Europe, except in the north-west, and then through Turkey to Iran. The two species, but particularly L. aestivum, are widely naturalized throughout the world, including in other parts of Europe, Japan, parts of Australia, North America and Uruguay. It prefers damp situations, such as wet meadows and ditches, and shady habitats, such as woods.

Other Leucojum plants

Summer snowflake · Spring snowflake