Quick Guide: spring/summer, hardy, semi-shade, height: 30-45cm/12-18in, width: 20cm/8in

There are three species of leucojum in general cultivation. These bulbs bear delicate white flowers rather like a snowdrop but rounder in shape. Leucojums are taller and different species flower in spring, summer and the early autumn. They are not difficult to grow and require minimal attention.

GROWING Plant fresh bulbs in late summer/early autumn 7.5cm/3in deep. L,eucojaam aestivum, the summer snowflake, and L. vernum, the spring snowflake, require moisture-retentive soil. L. atumnale, the autumn snowflake, prefers free-draining soil and should be set only 5cm/2in deep. Leave the clumps undisturbed for several seasons and divide them when overcrowding reduces the production of flowers.

PROPAGATION Offsets will flower next to the parent bulb, but when they arc overcrowded should be lifted, divided and replanted. Lift the bulbs when the foliage has died down.

SPECIES L. aestivum (above), rich green strap-like leaves, white flowers tipped green, late spring; L. autumnale, grass-like foliage appears after the small, pure white blooms, late summer; L. vernum, only 15cm/6in high, single white flowers, tipped green, early spring.

POSSIBLE PROBLEMS Generally trouble-free.