Queen Olga's Snowdrop (Galanthus reginae-olgae)

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Sunlight Partial sun to full shade; tolerates dappled winter sunlight, avoid intense summer direct sun

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Watering Water sparingly during active growth; keep soil slightly moist, avoid waterlogging bulbs

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Temperature Hardy to -10°C; requires cool winter temperatures to trigger bloom initiation, dormant in summer heat

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Leaf: Narrow, linear, grey-green basal leaves emerging with or after flowers
Flower: Drooping, white bell-shaped blooms with green inner tepal markings
Bulb: Small, ovoid underground storage bulb for seasonal dormancy

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Watering

Reduce watering as foliage dies back for summer dormancy

Fertilization

Apply diluted bulb fertilizer once as foliage emerges. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to support bulb growth without encouraging excessive foliage

Eggshell powder topdress：Sprinkle finely crushed, dried eggshells around bulb bases in autumn; avoid direct contact with emerging foliage

Pruning

Remove yellowing foliage only after it dies back naturally to nourish the underground bulb
Thin overcrowded clumps every 3–4 years during summer dormancy to improve bloom production
Deadhead spent blooms to redirect energy to bulb storage rather than seed production

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to lycorine; may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain

Humans: Ingestion of bulbs or foliage causes mild gastrointestinal upset

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Culture: Symbolizes hope and winter resilience in European ornamental gardens

Usage: Ornamental winter bulb for rock gardens, borders, and container displays