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chionodoxa
Scientific Name: Chionodoxa
Family: Liliaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Glory-of-the-Snow (Chionodoxa)
Chionodoxa, commonly known as glory-of-the-snow, is a charming genus of early spring-blooming bulbous perennials that can brighten up your garden after the long winter months.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions a warning against feeding Chionodoxa to tortoises, due to its nature as a plant from bulbs or corms.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Chionodoxa
- Common Name: Glory-of-the-snow
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Subfamily: Scilloideae
- Synonyms: Scilla ser. Chionodoxa, Chionodoxa gigantea.
- Formerly Called: Chionodoxa luciliae (in some cases)
- Note: The text references the Hyacinthaceae family as well.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to mountainsides in western Turkey.
- Specifically, the eastern Mediterranean and Asia Minor are mentioned as native regions.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Dwarf bulbous perennial.
- Grows to a height of 3 to 5 inches (approximately 10-15 cm).
- Features narrowly strap-shaped leaves.
- Produces star-shaped flowers with six petals.
- Typically has five to ten small flowers per stem.
- Available in shades of blue, pink, and white. Some varieties feature a white center or "eye."
- Known for forming carpets of color and naturalizing easily.
Quirky Facts
- The genus name Chionodoxa is derived from the Greek words "chion" (snow) and "doxa" (glory).
- The name "Glory-of-the-snow" reflects its habit of flowering early, often when snow is still present.
- The text mentions that the name Chionodoxa luciliae was once given to the plant after Lucille Bossier, the wife of a Swiss botanist.
Cultivation and Uses
- Easy to grow in any well-drained soil.
- Suitable for rockeries, borders, containers, beds, and even naturalizing in grass.
- Can be planted in sunny or lightly shaded areas.
- Valued for attracting pollinators and filling gaps in borders.
Varieties
- Chionodoxa luciliae: A common species of glory-of-the-snow.
- Chionodoxa forbesii: Another popular species.
- Chionodoxa forbesii 'Blue': A variety of C. forbesii with blue flowers.
- Chionodoxa forbesii 'Blue Giant': A variety with bright blue flowers and a large white "eye".
- Chionodoxa luciliae Gigantea Group
- Chionodoxa sardensis: A variety with lavender-blue flowers and a hint of white.
- Chionodoxa luciliae Alba: A white flowering variety.
- Chionodoxa Rose Queen
Further Information
- NC State University: Provides information on Chionodoxa luciliae and C. gigantea.