Galanthus elwesii ‘Comet’

A particularly handsome and robust large-flowered form of Galanthus elwesii, ‘Comet’ was found by John Morley at the Royal Horticultural Society’s garden at Wisley in 1982. The original plant was growing on a compost heap, where Morley spotted its potential and, with the permission of Ken Aslet, then Superintendent at Wisley, rescued it for cultivation. It was subsequently propagated at North Green, where it became one of the better-known large-flowered elwesii selections.

The name refers to Comet Kohoutek, the spectacular comet discovered in 1973 which generated considerable excitement as it approached the Sun. Quite why a snowdrop rescued from a compost heap should acquire such an astronomical name is perhaps less mysterious when one considers that Morley was an enthusiastic plantsman with an eye for memorable names.

The flowers are large and boldly proportioned, held on relatively long, arching pedicels above broad, pointed, glaucous grey-green foliage. The inner segments carry a strong green apical marking, while the broad, spreading outer segments are predominantly white and may show fine green markings towards their tips. The intensity of these markings can vary, adding a little seasonal character to an otherwise remarkably consistent cultivar. The combination of substantial flowers, handsome foliage and good proportions gives ‘Comet’ considerable presence.

An important old North Green selection, ‘Comet’ has also played a part in the development of other notable snowdrops, including ‘Green Comet’, which arose from seed associated with it. The latter bears a strong resemblance to ‘Comet’ but notably lacks its green outer-segment markings.

A splendid snowdrop with an unusually good back story: discovered on a compost heap at Wisley in 1982, rescued with official permission and eventually propagated at North Green. Proof, perhaps, that occasionally the best things really are found where the garden has thrown them away.

Cultivation: Grow in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in partial shade or deciduous woodland. A vigorous and reliable cultivar which makes an excellent specimen beneath deciduous trees and shrubs. Avoid prolonged summer drought and waterlogging, and allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering.

Flowering: January–February

Hardiness: H5, approximately −15 to −10°C

Height: 20–25cm

Spread: 15–20cm