Galanthus woronowii 'Befana'

A particularly useful Christmas-flowering Galanthus woronowii selected at Edulis from a seedling of ‘Cider with Rosie’. ‘Befana’ is distinguished by its green-tipped flowers and exceptionally early flowering, reliably opening from around mid-December and continuing into late January. The broad, glossy green foliage characteristic of G. woronowii provides an attractive contrast to the white flowers and makes this an excellent plant for bringing colour into the garden at the darkest time of year. 

The name refers to La Befana, the gift-giving witch of Italian folklore who visits children around Epiphany. A fitting name for a snowdrop that arrives with its flowers as a winter gift.

Cultivation: Grow in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in partial or dappled shade. Particularly good near paths and entrances where its exceptionally early flowers can be appreciated. Allow the foliage to mature and die back naturally after flowering.

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