Galanthus ‘Treasure Island'

One of the great modern yellow snowdrops, Galanthus ‘Treasure Island’ was found by the late Veronica Cross in her garden in Herefordshire, in a particularly productive patch that she called “The Island” or “Treasure Island”. As she put it, “That is where I keep my treasures – on The Island.” The area produced a remarkable collection of seedlings, including ‘Pieces of Eight’, ‘Long John Silver’ and ‘Treasure Island’ itself. Avon Bulbs first listed it in 2020. 

This is a hybrid of uncertain detailed parentage, with the appearance of a golden, large-flowered Galanthus ‘Mighty Atom’. The flowers are exceptionally substantial, beautifully proportioned and strongly yellow-marked, with a yellow-green ovary and yellow-green markings on the inner segments. The grey-green foliage sets off the flowers particularly well. It is currently regarded by several specialist growers as one of the largest-flowered yellow snowdrops, and mature bulbs can produce flowers of genuinely impressive size. 

The name is therefore wonderfully literal: ‘Treasure Island’ is named for the very piece of ground in Veronica Cross’s garden where it was found, rather than simply being a fanciful pirate reference. Introduced in 2015 according to specialist snowdrop sources, it rapidly acquired almost mythical status among galanthophiles, helped by its combination of flower size, strong yellow colouring and rarity. It is a snowdrop that lives up to its name — although unlike most buried treasure, it is considerably more attractive when left above ground. 

Cultivation: Grow in humus-rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in partial shade, preferably beneath deciduous trees or shrubs. Keep adequately moist during active growth and do not allow the soil to become excessively dry in summer. Older bulbs produce markedly better flowers and larger clumps, so a little patience is rewarded. 

Flowering: January–February

Hardiness: H5, approximately −15 to −10°C

Height: 15–20cm

Spread: 10–15cm