Galanthus elwesii ‘Margaret Biddulph’

A particularly elegant green-marked form of the greater snowdrop, Galanthus elwesii ‘Margaret Biddulph’ is distinguished by its broad, neatly formed flowers and outer segments washed with soft pale green. The inner segments are almost entirely green, creating a strong contrast with the white tips of the outer segments and giving the flowers a particularly clean, refined appearance. The narrow grey-green foliage and good flower size are typical of G. elwesii, while the combination of green-washed outers and solid green inners makes ‘Margaret Biddulph’ an especially handsome cultivar.

Origin: Originally from Rodmarton Manor in the Cotswolds, the Arts and Crafts house and garden created for Claud and Margaret Biddulph. The snowdrop is named for Margaret Biddulph and remains associated with the garden, which is still owned by the Biddulph family and has become one of the notable snowdrop gardens of the Cotswolds. Avon Bulbs records the plant specifically as a G. elwesii with green-washed outer segments. 

A strong garden plant: ‘Margaret Biddulph’ is a particularly worthwhile virescent G. elwesii, combining elegant flower form with the vigour and reliability of the species. The pale green wash on the outer segments is more subtle than the stronger markings of some modern cultivars, giving the flowers a pleasingly restrained appearance, while the almost solid-green inner segments provide sufficient contrast to make each flower immediately distinctive. It is an excellent choice for both a specialist collection and a winter garden where its colouring can be appreciated at close quarters.

In the garden: Grow in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in partial shade or an open position with good winter light. G. elwesii is tolerant of relatively open conditions and will grow well in sun provided the soil remains consistently moist during active growth. Avoid waterlogging during summer dormancy and allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering. Particularly effective beneath deciduous trees and shrubs, in woodland-style planting or towards the front of a snowdrop collection where the green-washed flowers can be examined closely. 

Height: 14–18cm
Spread: 10–15cm
Flowering: January–February
Hardiness: H5 (−15 to −10°C)
Aspect: Partial shade to sun
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well drained