Galanthus reginae-olgae 'Fotini'

A choice virescent form of Galanthus reginae-olgae, introduced by the late Melvyn Jope and notable for the fine green striping that extends onto the outer segments. The delicate green markings give the otherwise pure white flowers an unusually fresh appearance, particularly effective when the flowers emerge against the darkening autumn garden. An early-flowering snowdrop, often flowering before the leaves appear, making the flowers seem to float above the ground. A particularly desirable and distinctive selection for the collector of autumn-flowering reginae-olgae.

Best grown in fertile, humus-rich soil that is moist during its growing season but well drained, with reasonable light in autumn and winter. A warm, sheltered position suits it particularly well.

• Introduced by: Melvyn Jope.
• Hardy to at least H5 (-15 to -10°C).
• Height: 15–20cm; spread: 10–15cm.
• Flowers: October–November.