Snowflake
Leucojum, the summer snowflake, carries clusters of nodding white bells, each petal tipped with a fresh green dot, on slim arching stems. Despite its name it is a true spring flower, and florists love it for the dainty, woodland softness it lends to bouquets and delicate arrangements. Its cool white-and-green colouring pairs beautifully with other spring bulbs and makes it a natural for pared-back, garden-style work. Fine-stemmed and quietly charming, it reads as a more relaxed cousin to lily-of-the-valley.
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Central and southern Europe to western Asia |
| Peak season | March, April |
| Availability | February, March, April, May |
| Stem length | 20–40 cm |
| Vase life | 5–7 days |
| Colors | white, green |
| Price tier | mid |
Cut the hollow stems and condition in cool, shallow, clean water, as the delicate stems bruise and dehydrate easily. Like other Amaryllidaceae, cut stems ooze a sap, so give them a separate drink for an hour before mixing with other flowers. Keep cool and out of direct heat to protect the nodding, papery bells. Handle gently and avoid crushing the fine stems when arranging.
- •Recut and condition separately for an hour before mixing
- •Use cool, shallow, clean water
- •Keep out of direct heat and draughts
- •Handle the fine stems gently to avoid bruising
- •Refresh water regularly
