Galanthus elwesii ‘Santa Claus’

A celebrated early-flowering selection of Galanthus elwesii made by Timothy Clarke at Netherhall Manor, Cambridgeshire, in 1980. The plant was subsequently named ‘Santa Claus’ in 1998, a fitting name for a snowdrop whose outstanding characteristic is its exceptionally early flowering. It can begin flowering around Christmas, making it one of the most useful cultivars for opening the snowdrop season well before most Galanthus are in bloom.

The flowers are substantial and cleanly marked, carried above broad, grey-green foliage typical of G. elwesii. Its combination of early flowering, good flower size and strong garden presence has made it a particularly desirable cultivar for collections and winter planting. The name is a charming reference to its ability to bring a snowdrop display to the garden at Christmas.

Cultivation: Grow in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in partial shade or beneath deciduous trees. Plant close to paths or entrances where the exceptionally early flowers can be appreciated. Allow the foliage to mature and die back naturally after flowering.

Flowering: December–January, often around Christmas
Hardiness: H5, approximately −15 to −10°C
Height: 20–25cm
Spread: 10–15cm