Leucojum aestivum L.

Summer Snowflake; Giant Snowflake

Herb

Perennial

Vascular

Summer Snowflake is an introduced perennial in the Amaryllis family (Amaryllidaceae). It is native to central and southern Europe. Summer Snowflake is widely cultivated in Alabama and has been collected as an escape primarily in the southern and western counties of the state. Summer Snowflake occurs on roadsides, in pastures, around old home sites, and on vacant lots. It is a perennial from a bulb. The leaves are linear, entire, and dark green in color. The leaves are well developed at flowering. The flowers are produced on a hollow, compressed scape. There is a solitary bract that encloses the developing flowers. Flowers are campanulate, nodding, with 6 white tepals. Each tepal has a bright green spot near its apex. The fruit is a capsule with wedge-shaped corky black seed. Summer Snowflake often produces fruit, but seed rarely develop in Alabama. Its distribution seems to result from humans intentionally or accidentally moving the bulbs around. Bulbs are readily available from nurseries specializing in bulbs or heirloom plants. They prefer a well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Plants flower best when they receive full sun for at least a portion of the day.--A. Diamond

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Not Native

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