Contents
Description
Leucojum Aestivum, commonly known as the Summer Snowflake, is a herbaceous perennial bulb plant native to Europe and Western Asia. They are part of the Amaryllidaceae family and are closely related to snowdrops. These plants bloom in late spring or early summer, producing delicate white flowers which are bell-shaped with green tips. The flowers grow on tall scapes, which can reach up to 40 cm in height, and have a slightly sweet fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus | Leucojum |
Appearance
Leucojum Aestivum has narrow, strap-like leaves that grow up to 30 cm in length. The leaves are dark green in color and grow in a basal rosette. The flowers of the Summer Snowflake are white with green tips, and each flower can have up to six petals. The flowers are bell-shaped and hang down from the tall scapes. The scapes themselves are also green in color and can grow up to 40 cm tall.
Care Guide
– Water: Leucojum Aestivum prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as this can cause the bulbs to rot.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring, just as the plant begins to emerge from dormancy.- Soil: These plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but avoid planting in heavy clay or waterlogged soil.- Sunlight: Leucojum Aestivum prefers partial shade, but can tolerate full sun if the soil is moist.- Hardiness Zones: These plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Leucojum Aestivum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, they can be susceptible to bulb rot if the soil is too wet. Other potential issues include aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Leucojum Aestivum is native to Europe and Western Asia, where it grows in damp meadows, woodland edges, and along streams. They are well suited to cottage gardens, rock gardens, and naturalized areas.
Question and Answer
Q: When do Leucojum Aestivum bloom?
A: These plants bloom in late spring or early summer.Q: What is the height of the scapes?
A: The scapes can reach up to 40 cm in height.Q: What is the hardiness zone of Leucojum Aestivum?
A: These plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-9.Q: What pests and diseases are common to Leucojum Aestivum?
A: These plants are relatively pest and disease-free, but can be susceptible to bulb rot and aphids.
Related Plants
– Leucojum Vernum (Spring Snowflake)- Galanthus Nivalis (Snowdrop)- Narcissus Pseudonarcissus (Wild Daffodil)- Fritillaria Meleagris (Snake’s Head Fritillary)
References
– RHS. (2021). Leucojum aestivum. [online] Available at: https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/3289/leucojum-aestivum/details [Accessed 22 Jun. 2021].- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Leucojum aestivum. [online] Available at: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a514 [Accessed 22 Jun. 2021].- Plants of the World Online. (2021). Leucojum aestivum. [online] Available at: http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:531645-1 [Accessed 22 Jun. 2021].
