Galanthus ‘Starling’

A highly distinctive semi-double snowdrop selected by Alan Street at Avon Bulbs, from a plant found in the famous copse at Mid Lambrook, Somerset, and first listed by Avon Bulbs in 2015. ‘Starling’ is thought to be a hybrid involving Galanthus elwesii and ‘Hill Poe’, although this parentage is not formally confirmed. 

The flowers are unmistakable, with long, narrow, strongly pointed outer segments that flare and turn upwards, allowing the inner segments to be viewed almost directly from above. These are heavily marked in dark green, creating a striking star-like centre. The short pedicel contributes to the characteristic outward-facing flowers, while the unusually long-lasting flowering period is another notable feature. It is one of the most instantly recognisable modern snowdrops and an excellent cultivar for close observation. 

Cultivation: Grow in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in partial shade or light woodland. Its upward-facing flowers are particularly effective when planted where they can be viewed at close quarters. Allow foliage to mature and die back naturally.

Flowering: February–March
Hardiness: H5, approximately −15 to −10°C
Height: 15–20cm
Spread: 10–15cm