Leucojum vernum L.
A bulbous perennial, it bears a few only erect, strap-like leaves and stout, leafless stems with 1, sometimes 2, bell-shaped, green-tipped white flowers in early spring. To 30cm. [RHSE, Hortus, Baker Am.].
Horticultural & Botanical History
Fist botanically described by Linnaeus in 1753 [Sp. Pl. p.289/1753].
The Snowflake is a rare bulbous plant, perfectly hardy, but impatient of wet in winter.’ [Gard. Chron. 1850]. According to Paxton's Dictionary introduced to Britain in 1596. The varieties carpathian, introduced in 1816, and multiplex are also listed. ‘The blossoms of the Leucojum and Galanthus, or Snow-Drop, are very similar at first sight, but differ very essentially when examined; the Snow-Drop having, according to the Linnaean description, a three-leaved nectary, which is wanting in the Leucojum; the two genera then being very distinct, it becomes necessary to give them different names; we have accordingly bestowed on the Leocojum the name of Snow-flake. […] It is found wild in shady places and moist woods in many parts of Germany and Italy.’ [BM t.46/1786]. FS f.1103/1856.
History at Camden Park
Listed in all published catalogues [B.297/1843].
Notes
Leucojum vernum Gueldenst. (b.1781) = Leucojum aestivum L. which see.
Published May 17, 2009 - 03:07 PM | Last updated Jul 16, 2012 - 04:41 PM
Leucojum vernum L. | BM t.46/1786 | BHL
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
|---|---|
| Category | |
| Region of origin | Southern Europe |
| Synonyms |
|
| Common Name | Spring snowflake |
| Name in the Camden Park Record | Leucojum vernum
|
| Confidence level | high |
