Galanthus nivalis ‘Withnail’ (109)

A characterful named snowdrop with a distinctly British-sounding name but a Croatian nursery origin, Galanthus nivalis ‘Withnail’ produces neat, well-proportioned flowers with crisp white outer segments and attractive green markings on the inner segments. The flowers are held cleanly above the foliage, giving the plant a pleasingly tidy appearance. Its name adds a touch of eccentric humour to an otherwise classic winter bulb.

Origin: Originally from Decora Nursery in Croatia, where it was selected and brought into cultivation before being distributed more widely amongst snowdrop collectors. The cultivar name ‘Withnail’ is a playful reference to the cult British film Withnail & I, lending the plant a suitably eccentric character.

In the garden: A choice addition to a snowdrop collection and equally effective naturalised beneath deciduous trees and shrubs. Plant in humus-rich, moisture-retentive soil and allow the bulbs to remain undisturbed, enabling clumps to build gradually over time.

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