Leucojum aestivum 'Bridesmaid'

Leucojum aestivum 'Bridesmaid' is a variety of summer snowflake selected for its particularly abundant and decorative flowering. Contrary to what its species name suggests, this bulbous plant blooms in spring, more or less early, after the snowdrops but before the lilies of the valley. Its pendulous white bell-shaped flowers with green tips emerge from a cluster of leaves that resemble those of daffodils. The summer snowflake multiplies spontaneously in moist soils, in a wet meadow, near a pond, or on the edge of a woodland.

The summer snowflake, Leucojum aestivum in Latin, belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. It is naturally present in Europe, extending to Asia, but it is a relatively rare species found in wet to moist habitats. The vegetation emerges from the ground as early as January-February. This 'Bridesmaid' variety forms an erect clump, reaching a height of about 50-55cm (20-22in) when in flower. It can spread over a large area through the production of bulbils. Flowering usually occurs in April-May but can be much earlier in mild winters. The flowering period extends over several weeks and consists of lateral umbels, each bearing 3 to 5 flowers. The flower, quite large (up to 3-4cm (1-2in) in diameter), has six white tepals ending in a green tip. Pollinated by bees, the flowers produce a globose fruit containing large round and shiny seeds. The floating fruit is carried away by water, allowing the plant to disperse. The foliage consists of long, green, ribbon-like leaves that are erect and shiny dark green. The leaves turn yellow and disappear by July at the latest. The plant then remains dormant as a bulb throughout the summer and part of the unfavourable season.

Summer snowflakes add volume and light to a semi-shaded area of the garden in spring. Plant them in clumps of 10 to 30 bulbs, preferably in clay or loamy soil that is moist to wet and sheltered from intense sunlight. Also, consider their lovely bell-shaped flowers for your spring bouquets. They last in a vase for nearly 15 days!