Summer Snowflake
Leucojum aestivum
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Pl. 8B66 — Leucojum aestivum
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IOverview
Overview
Summer Snowflake (Leucojum aestivum) is a delicate bulbous plant native to the Mediterranean and Eastern Europe, ranging from Albania and Austria to Ukraine and Turkey. Known for its ornamental value, it features white, snow-like flowers that appear in late spring or early summer, creating a striking display. This plant thrives in moist, well-drained soil with a pH of 7–7.5, making it suitable for gardens where the ground remains consistently damp. Its edible root can be used as a mild alternative to garlic, offering a light and refreshing taste. Hardy from zones 4-9, Summer Snowflake adds both beauty and utility to its environment.
Quick answers
What is Summer Snowflake?
Summer Snowflake (Leucojum aestivum) is a delicate bulbous plant native to the Mediterranean and Eastern Europe, ranging from Albania and Austria to Ukraine and Turkey. Known for its ornamental value, it features white, snow-like flowers that appear in late spring or early summer, creating a striking display.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Summer Snowflake thrives in moist to wet soils and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types. It is hardy in temperate regions with zones ranging from 4 to 9. This plant requires partial shade to full sun and should be planted in well-drained areas to prevent root rot. For propagation, divide the bulbs in late summer after flowering. The edible parts are the roots, which can be harvested carefully. Maintain soil pH between 7 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
Light
7/10
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-9
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.5 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Summer Snowflake for the first time
8steps
Start with Summer Snowflake bulbs for a beginner-friendly gardening project.
- 1
What you'll need
Summer Snowflake bulbs, well-draining soil, and a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in late summer or early fall for spring blooms.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Use a pot with drainage holes if planting in containers.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs 5-7 cm deep, pointed end up, spaced about 10 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rot. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light shade during hot summer days and water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
After flowering, cut back spent blooms to encourage new growth. Remove yellowed leaves as they die down.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to provide light shade during hot weather.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The Summer Snowflake's root is edible and can be prepared in various ways. Typically, it is either cooked or dried before consumption. SKIP
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
26 native · 4 introduced
Distribution
26 native · 4 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 26 native· 4 introduced
Europe18 regions
native (17)AlbaniaAustriaBelgiumBulgariaFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryIrelandItalyNetherlandsRomaniaRussiaSpainSwitzerlandUkraineUnited Kingdom
introduced (1)Denmark
Asia3 regions
native (2)IranTurkey
introduced (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Czechoslovakia, Transcaucasus, Turkey-in-Europe, Yugoslavia
introduced:Texas, Virginia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 8b66e82a-776e-4ffc-b3dd-7f30f55d641d
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