Galanthus nivalis ‘Tusker’

A wonderfully curious aberrant form of Galanthus nivalis, ‘Tusker’ produces flowers with an unusual tendency for the outer segments to sit almost horizontally, at around 90 degrees to the flower’s axis. Some flowers develop the outer segments so close to the ovary that the individual blooms take on a strikingly architectural appearance. This eccentricity gives the plant a character quite unlike the conventional pendant snowdrop and makes it an intriguing addition to a specialist collection.

Origin: A distinctive aberrant form of Galanthus nivalis associated with Decora Nursery in Croatia. It was selected for its unusual flower architecture, particularly the tendency for the outer segments to project horizontally around the ovary. It is now maintained as a named cultivar and is being propagated in specialist collections. 

In the garden: A snowdrop for the collector rather than mass planting, with flowers that repay close inspection. Plant where the unusual orientation of the outer segments can be appreciated at eye level. Allow it to establish undisturbed and grow in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil.

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