Spring snowflake

Spring snowflake (Leucojum vernum)

In Slovenia, alongside the common snowdrop, the spring snowflake also grows. Since their habitats rarely overlap, in some places, only the spring snowflake is known by the name snowdrop, while in others, only the common snowdrop. Many are pleasantly surprised to learn that we are talking about two different plants.

The spring snowflake is larger than the common snowdrop, with all the petals being of equal size, which makes the inner and outer circles less distinct. It has wide, shiny, grass-green leaves that grow from the bulb. Usually, there is one bell-shaped flower on each flower stalk with six petals, though occasionally there may be two equally large flowers. In some cases, two flower stalks can emerge from the bulb, each bearing two flowers.

The spring snowflake, sometimes also called "norica", like its smaller relative, is a toxic plant. It grows in moist habitats in forests and their edges. The spring large snowdrop is found in wet, marshy areas, but also on dry, steep limestone slopes.

Like the common snowdrop, the spring snowflake also reproduces by dividing its bulb and by seeds.

It is considered a protected plant. It can be picked for a bouquet, but digging up its underground parts is strictly prohibited.

DO YOU KNOW?

1. Due to its rarity, the spring snowflake is considered something special in some parts of Slovenia, and it is also called the "golden snowdrop" , or in some places, " ta ceplen".
2. The spring snowflake is very similar to its extremely rare summer relative – the summer snowflake, which is larger and blooms from May to June.