Summer Snowflake Plant Care
Leucojum aestivum L.
Leucojum aestivum, commonly called the summer snowflake, giant snowflake, Loddon lily and rarely snowbell and dewdrop among others, is a plant species widely cultivated as an ornamental. It is native to most of Europe from Spain and Ireland to Ukraine, with the exception of Scandinavia, Russia, Belarus and the Baltic countries.
Every 7–10 days
Partial shade to full sun
50–75°F
40–70%
What Is the Summer Snowflake?
Summer Snowflake (Leucojum aestivum) belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family within the Leucojum genus. Summer Snowflake is native to most of Europe from Spain and Ireland to Ukraine, with the exception of Scandinavia, Russia, Belarus and the Baltic countries. Summer Snowflake is also known as Summer Snowflakes, Great Snowflake, Giant Snowflake.
Summer Snowflake displays a clumping perennial growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 0.5 inches. Summer Snowflake produces bell-shaped white flowers with green or yellow spots.
Leaf size: approximately 12 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Summer Snowflake?
Leucojum aestivum requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Summer Snowflake Need?
Summer Snowflake thrives in partial shade to full sun light conditions. The optimal light range is 100–1000 lux. Avoid placing Summer Snowflake in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Partial shade to full sun
100–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Summer Snowflake Prefer?
Leucojum aestivum grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 75°F. Summer Snowflake prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
50–75°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Summer Snowflake?
Rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Summer Snowflake to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Summer Snowflake?
Divide and repot every 3-5 years. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Summer Snowflake?
Summer Snowflake can be propagated through division of offsets, seeds.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Summer Snowflake Toxic to Pets and Children?
Toxic to Pets & Children
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Summer Snowflake?
Summer Snowflake is susceptible to aphids, slugs, snails. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Summer Snowflake Need?
Summer Snowflake grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. Native to most of Europe from Spain and Ireland to Ukraine, with the exception of Scandinavia, Russia, Belarus and the Baltic countries, Summer Snowflake is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Summer Snowflake as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
Summer Snowflake is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Leucojum genus — compare its care with other Leucojum species on PlantoScan.
Summer Snowflake tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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