Galanthus plicatus ‘Josie’

A particularly handsome and distinctive seedling of ‘Trym’, raised in the garden of Bob and Rannveig Wallis, ‘Josie’ is a fine example of the remarkable variation that can arise from the celebrated Galanthus plicatus cultivar. It is a relatively small snowdrop, but its strongly marked flowers give it considerably more presence than its stature might suggest. 

The rounded flowers are carried on upright stems, with the outer segments boldly marked with dark green towards the tips, while the inner segments are heavily green marked. The flowers develop an attractive, substantial texture as they mature, which also helps them withstand poor weather particularly well. 

The foliage has the broad, pleated character expected of G. plicatus, complementing the rounded flowers rather beautifully. It is a cultivar that rewards close observation: what initially appears to be a simple green-tipped flower reveals increasingly strong texture and marking as the blooms age.

A vigorous and worthwhile collector’s snowdrop, ‘Josie’ combines the unmistakable influence of ‘Trym’ with its own individual character. Its compact stature, strong green markings and weather-resistant flowers make it particularly effective planted in a small group where the details can be appreciated.

Nomenclature: Galanthus plicatus ‘Josie’
Provenance: Seedling of ‘Trym’, raised in the garden of Bob & Rannveig Wallis
Type: G. plicatus selection
Flowering: February–March
Height: c. 18cm
Spread: 10–15cm
Hardiness: H5
Soil: Moist, humus-rich and well drained
Aspect: Partial shade to full sun