Varieties of nivalis
Varieties of nivalis
Galanthus nivalis is the common widespread snowdrop throughout the UK. It is almost undoubtedly not native though and the British population has probably derived from a small number of similar introductions; perhaps chosen for their propensity to clump up readily - who knows. Because of its resulting narrow genetic base, single nivalis in Britain produces little seed and gives a false impression of the uniformity of the plant.
Nivalis growing on continental Europe is a much more variable plant and many recent varieties have originated in central Europe. Nonetheless, numerous variants have also arisen and been selected in Britain; plants with green-tipped flowers, yellow flowers, dwarfs and doubles. Giants, twin flowered and very early variants are, however, rare or unknown.
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