Galanthus nivalis ‘Hedgehog’

A delightful and rather distinctive double form of the common snowdrop, Galanthus nivalis ‘Hedgehog’ produces rounded, densely packed flowers with numerous narrow inner segments, giving each bloom a charmingly tousled, hedgehog-like appearance. The flowers are predominantly white, with green markings that can vary with season and growing conditions. It is a characterful snowdrop rather than a perfectly symmetrical double, and its slightly eccentric, congested flowers are much of its appeal.

Origin: Attributed to Scottish snowdrop grower and collector Ian Christie, who is credited with bringing this distinctive double form into cultivation and circulation. The name ‘Hedgehog’ refers to the dense, spiky appearance created by its numerous narrow inner segments.

In the garden: An excellent choice for collectors and for naturalistic planting beneath deciduous trees and shrubs. Best planted where it can remain undisturbed for several years, gradually forming substantial clumps. Grow in cool, humus-rich soil that remains moist during the growing season but is not waterlogged.

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