SafePlants

Glory of the Snow (Chionodoxa spp.)

Glory of the Snow, with its charming star-shaped flowers, is a welcome sight in early spring. Often appearing while snow is still on the ground, it brings vibrant color to gardens and landscapes.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant grows from bulbs, which are sometimes a concern for pets if ingested.

Common Names

• Glory-of-the-snow
• Lucile's Glory-of-the-snow

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chionodoxa spp. (specific species mentioned include Chionodoxa luciliae and Chionodoxa forbesii)
• Family: Asparagaceae (formerly Hyacinthaceae or Liliaceae). The text mentions Asparagaceae subfamily Scilloideae.
• Synonyms: Scilla luciliae, Chionodoxa luciliae Heimo, and Chionodoxa gigantea.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the mountains of western Turkey.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Bulbous perennial flowering plants.
• Typically produces flat, star-shaped flowers.
• Flowers are commonly pale blue with white centers, but pink and white varieties also exist.
• Low-growing and spreads quickly, forming carpets of color.
• Multiple star-shaped blooms from one bulb.

Ecological Role

• Self-sows readily, forming colonies if left undisturbed.
• Naturalizes easily.

Quirky Facts

• The botanical name chionodoxa comes from Greek words; "chion" meaning snow.
• The plant was formerly called Chionodoxa luciliae after Lucille Bossier, the wife of a Swiss botanist.
• Kew staff once planted 336,000 bulbs of Chionodoxa siehei in a lawn.

Cultivation

• Prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil, which can be acidic or alkaline.
• Suitable for rock gardens, containers, beds, and borders.
• Plant bulbs in the fall for spring blooms.

Further Information

• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)
• Dave's Garden