Galanthus ‘George Proverbs'

A handsome and distinctive snowdrop from Colesbourne Park, Galanthus ‘George Proverbs’ was found by Chris Horsfall and John Grimshaw at Colesbourne and subsequently named by Chris Horsfall for George Proverbs, a Colesbourne resident and gamekeeper. The flowers are well proportioned, with broad white outer segments and strongly marked green inner segments, while the overall habit is vigorous and reliable. It is a good garden snowdrop, combining attractive flowers with the ability to make a substantial clump in time.

The choice of George Proverbs as its namesake reflects the close connection between the snowdrop collection and the people of Colesbourne. Proverbs was not only a gamekeeper but also a notably accomplished gardener; John Grimshaw recorded his prize-winning chrysanthemums at the local flower show, where he took first prizes in all five classes he entered.

At Colesbourne, ‘George Proverbs’ was given a prominent position amongst the collection and has subsequently become established in cultivation as a distinctive garden hybrid. 

A particularly good snowdrop for naturalising beneath deciduous trees and shrubs, where a developing clump has considerably more impact than a solitary bulb. Its association with Colesbourne also gives it an appealing piece of local horticultural history, rather than being simply another pretty name in an increasingly crowded snowdrop catalogue.

Cultivation: Grow in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in partial shade or deciduous woodland. Avoid prolonged summer drought. Allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering.

Flowering: January–February

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

Height: 15–20cm

Spread: 10–15cm