Galanthus 'Cliff Curtis'

 A particularly handsome and distinctive late-flowering snowdrop, ‘Cliff Curtis’ was a selection from the garden of Cliff Curtis at Hacconby, Lincolnshire, and was named in his honour in 2003, at the National Galanthus Gala held in Bourne. Cliff was a much-respected Lincolnshire galanthophile and plantsman whose enthusiasm, keen eye and generosity helped preserve and distribute a number of excellent snowdrops. 

The flowers are notably rounded and delicately scented, with deep, claw-shaped outer segments having particularly pronounced shoulders. The inner segments are deeply grooved and carry a large sinus notch with distinctive teardrop-shaped green markings on either side, together with very pale greenish shading towards the base. The overall effect is elegant rather than showy, but close inspection reveals a considerable amount of detail.

It is a vigorous plant which looks particularly impressive when established as a clump. The combination of rounded, scented flowers, strongly clawed outer segments and unusual two-tone inner markings makes it readily distinguishable from many of the more conventional garden hybrids. Its late flowering is another useful attribute, helping to extend the season towards the end of winter. 

Cliff Curtis himself was much more than the namesake of a snowdrop. He became an accomplished hybridiser and made a number of important discoveries and selections, while the Curtis garden at Hacconby became a well-known destination for snowdrop enthusiasts. His legacy lives on particularly appropriately in a plant selected from his own garden — one that, like its namesake, rewards close acquaintance rather than demanding attention from across the garden. 

Cultivation: Grow in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in partial shade or dappled woodland conditions. Avoid prolonged summer drought and waterlogging. Allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering. Particularly effective planted in groups where the rounded flowers and distinctive markings can be appreciated.

Flowering: February–March, late

Hardiness: Fully hardy in the UK; H5

Height: 15–18 cm

Spread: 10–15 cm

Nomenclature: Galanthus ‘Cliff Curtis’

Origin: Selection from the garden of Cliff Curtis, Hacconby, Lincolnshire

Named: 2003, in honour of Cliff Curtis