February 2024
Snowdrop
Galanthus nivalis
The scientific name for “snowdrops” is Galanthus nivalis, which means, ‘milk flower of the snow’, which refers to the flower color and its early flowering time. This bulb is often overlooked in our gardens because of its short stature. But, this early spring ephemeral is a welcome surprise when not much else is blooming in February. Snowdrops are in the amaryllis family and native to southern and western Europe where 19 species are found in moist woodlands. Most of the bulbs in the horticulture trade today are hybrids of these European species.
Snowdrops are tiny plants usually only 4-6 inches tall. Each bulb produces two gray-green strappy leaves that wither away about six weeks after blooming. From each bulb, arises a scape that extends above the leaves and bears a single blossom. Each flower has 2 petals facing downward.
Here at BGO, you will find snowdrops along the creekside path and in the shade garden. Long time BGO member and volunteer, Martha Ward provided funds last year specifically to enlarge our collection of snowdrops which were planted in the beds near the admissions window. Plan on visiting the garden mid to late February to enjoy snowdrops in the garden.
Berni Kurz
Director of Horticulture
Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
Read More
NWA Citizen Science Butterfly Project
A citizen science project between the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, the University of Arkansas, and you! Butterflies, birds, flowers, and a wide variety of animals and plants come in a spectacular range of colors and shapes. One of the main goals of biology is understanding why this variation exists, and how changes in color and shape influence behavior, such as feeding, resting and predator avoidance.