Galanthus ‘Celia's Double'

A particularly neat and distinctive double snowdrop, Galanthus × valentinei ‘Celia’s Double’ has tightly packed inner segments enclosed by three white outer segments with strongly clawed tips. The flower is held on a relatively short spathe, giving it a slightly outward-facing character rather than the fully pendant habit seen in many snowdrops. The densely bunched centre gives the flowers an almost miniature carnation-like appearance, while the plant itself is notably vigorous. Some plants are also reported to carry a pleasing violet-like fragrance, adding another point of interest to this unusual hybrid.

Origin: A chance seedling that arose in the Oxfordshire garden of Celia and Walter Sawyer, where it occurred in close proximity to the similarly derived ‘Walter’s Double’. Celia Sawyer was, at the time, in charge of the Rock Garden at the University Botanic Garden, Oxford, and the plant was subsequently named ‘Celia’s Double’ in her honour. It is classified as Galanthus × valentinei, reflecting its hybrid origin. (Alpine Garden Society⁠)

A strong garden plant: ‘Celia’s Double’ is an unusually vigorous double hybrid and makes a particularly good garden plant where flower form is as important as rarity. The tightly packed inner segments give every flower considerable character, while the short spathe holds the blooms at an attractive angle for close viewing. Its vigour distinguishes it from some of the more delicate double cultivars, and established clumps can make an excellent display in the late winter garden. 

In the garden: Grow in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in partial shade or an open position with good winter light. Like other snowdrops, it should remain reasonably moist while in active growth but should not sit in waterlogged soil, particularly during summer dormancy. Allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering and avoid unnecessary disturbance once established. Particularly effective beneath deciduous trees and shrubs, at the front of woodland planting or in a dedicated snowdrop collection where its unusual double flowers can be appreciated at close quarters.

Height: 12–15cm
Spread: 10–15cm
Flowering: February
Hardiness: H5 (−15 to −10°C)
Aspect: Partial shade to sun
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well drained