Galanthus ‘The Wizard’

A distinctive and rather spellbinding Trym-type snowdrop, Galanthus ‘The Wizard’ was found by Alan Street in the copse at Avon Bulbs, Mid Lambrook, Somerset, and was first listed by Avon in 2015. Avon describes it as one of the seedlings arising in the copse, while other specialist sources identify it as a seedling of Galanthus ‘Trym’, placing it among the increasingly numerous and fascinating Trym-type snowdrops. 

The flowers are particularly striking, with large outer segments carrying lighter green, heart-shaped markings, combined with inner segments that are almost entirely green. The outer segments tend not to flare as dramatically as some other Trym-like forms; instead, their margins reflex slightly on otherwise rather flat petals. The apical green marking is noticeably darker than that towards the base, giving the flowers an attractive two-toned effect. A tall, upright plant, it has the strongly plicate leaves associated with G. plicatus. 

A snowdrop with plenty of character and, as Avon rather charmingly put it, one that causes those who see it to ‘fall under its spell’. The combination of almost wholly green inners, boldly marked outers and upright habit makes it readily recognisable, while its Trym ancestry places it firmly within one of the most influential lines of modern snowdrop breeding. There may now be a small army of Trym seedlings, but ‘The Wizard’ has retained something of the original magic.

Cultivation: Grow in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in partial shade or deciduous woodland. Avoid prolonged summer drought and permanently waterlogged conditions. Allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering. Particularly effective planted in groups beneath deciduous trees and shrubs where the flowers can be viewed at close quarters.

Flowering: February–March
Hardiness: H5, approximately −15 to −10°C
Height: 18–20cm
Spread: 10–15cm