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Description
Leucojum Aestivum Gravetye Giant, also known as Summer Snowflake, is a perennial bulbous plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. It is native to Europe and grows up to 24 inches tall. The plant produces large white flowers with green tips that hang down from the stem. The flowers have a pleasant fragrance and bloom in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Leucojum |
Appearance
The leaves of the Leucojum Aestivum Gravetye Giant are narrow and strap-like, growing up to 12 inches long. The flowers, which are the main attraction, are bell-shaped and hang down from the stem. They have six petals that are white with green tips, and a green central tube. The flowers are about 1 inch across and are produced in clusters of 3-5. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer and grows up to 24 inches tall.
Care Guide
Leucojum Aestivum Gravetye Giant is an easy to care plant that requires moderate maintenance. Here are some tips to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH level of 6.0-7.0 is ideal.
- Sunlight: Leucojum Aestivum Gravetye Giant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade but may not produce as many flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Leucojum Aestivum Gravetye Giant is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Bulb rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can cause the bulbs to rot.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of the plant.
- Narcissus fly: The larvae of this fly can damage the bulbs of the plant.
Habitat
Leucojum Aestivum Gravetye Giant is native to Europe and can be found in meadows, woodlands, and along streams. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Leucojum Aestivum Gravetye Giant?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the ideal pH level for the soil of this plant?
A: A pH level of 6.0-7.0 is ideal for Leucojum Aestivum Gravetye Giant.
Q: Can this plant tolerate full shade?
A: Yes, Leucojum Aestivum Gravetye Giant can tolerate full shade but may not produce as many flowers.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that this plant may be susceptible to?
A: The plant may be susceptible to bulb rot, slugs and snails, and narcissus fly.
Related Plants
- Leucojum Aestivum
- Leucojum Vernum
- Galanthus Nivalis
- Narcissus Pseudonarcissus
References
- “Leucojum Aestivum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a755. Accessed 15 June 2021.
- “Leucojum Aestivum ‘Gravetye Giant’.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/51153/Leucojum-aestivum-Gravetye-Giant/Details. Accessed 15 June 2021.
- “Leucojum Aestivum Gravetye Giant.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/leucojum-aestivum-gravetye-giant. Accessed 15 June 2021.
