Glory of the snow 'Alba'

Scilla luciliae 'Alba' (formerly often classified under Chionodoxa) is a delicate yet tough bulb that produces pure white, star-shaped flowers in the very early spring. Each bulb sends up a few narrow, strap-shaped leaves and a short stem carrying several upward-facing blooms, each featuring a faint green stripe on the reverse of the petals. These are wonderful for naturalising under deciduous shrubs or in lawns, as they flower and set seed before the canopy closes or the first grass stems need cutting. In the UK, they are one of the earliest signs of spring, often appearing alongside snowdrops. They are exceptionally hardy and easy to grow, requiring little maintenance once established. They prefer a well-drained soil that remains relatively moist during the growing season. Over time, they will form a charming, snowy carpet that increases in beauty year after year.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Well-drained loam.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: Feb, Mar.