Galanthus ‘Fishface’

One of the more characterful recent hybrids from Edulis, Galanthus ‘Fishface’ combines the substantial flowers of ‘Diggory’ with the particularly long pedicel inherited from ‘Fly Fishing’. The flowers are large and prominently suspended above the foliage, giving the plant an elegant, rather airy appearance. Most distinctive, however, is the marking on the inner segments, which forms a strongly expressive green pattern giving the flower its memorable resemblance to a face—hence the wonderfully appropriate name. It is an attractive example of how deliberate hybridisation can combine individual qualities from well-known cultivars to produce something with a character entirely its own. 

Origin: Raised at Edulis Nursery as part of its snowdrop hybridisation programme, ‘Fishface’ is a cross between Galanthus ‘Diggory’ and ‘Fly Fishing’. The combination brings together the large-flowered character of ‘Diggory’ with the long pedicel of ‘Fly Fishing’, while the distinctive facial marking on the inner segments provides its defining feature. 

A strong garden plant: ‘Fishface’ is particularly appealing to collectors who enjoy snowdrops with strong individual character rather than merely subtle variation. The large flowers are immediately noticeable, while the long pedicel allows them to hang elegantly above the foliage. The unusual inner-segment marking gives it excellent close-up interest and makes it an easy snowdrop to recognise in a collection.

In the garden: Grow in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in partial shade, ideally beneath deciduous trees or shrubs where it receives good winter and early-spring light. Keep plants adequately moist while in active growth but avoid waterlogged conditions, particularly during summer dormancy. Like other named snowdrops, it is best planted where its individual flower character can be appreciated at close quarters.

Height: 15–20cm
Spread: 10–15cm
Flowering: February–March
Hardiness: H5 (−15 to −10°C)
Aspect: Partial shade to sun
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well drained