First seen this spring but what is it?

Discussion in 'Plants: Identification' started by lmpifer1, Apr 7, 2011.

  1. lmpifer1

    lmpifer1 Member

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    My family and I go geocaching and now that the snow has almost melted it is time to get out and about. I found this plant with its drooping flowers amongst some leafless bushes in a park. Looking inside the flower was such a surprise; more white and green... just beautiful. However after scouring through the Michigan and other wildflower books back home I'm at a dead end. I hope someone can assist with the flower/plant identification. The first flower blooms after a long winter are a great treat!
     

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  2. NatureFiend

    NatureFiend Member

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    I actually know this one, I'm so excited! These are Snowdrops, or Galanthus nivalis.
     
  3. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    It's a Galanthus, but may not be G. nivalis.
     
  4. NatureFiend

    NatureFiend Member

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    Oh, okay! Thanks for correcting me.
     
  5. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    Although all of more or less same general appearance these are differentiated from one another using certain specific characteristics. A local friend is growing over 60 kinds at this time.
     
  6. SusanDunlap

    SusanDunlap Active Member

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    Think you are correct - congratulations!
     
  7. maf

    maf Generous Contributor Maple Society 10 Years

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    These leaves look too broad for Galanthus nivalis, more like G. elwesii or one of the other larger Snowdrop species.
     
  8. lmpifer1

    lmpifer1 Member

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    Thanks to everyone. I was so excited to see this when everything else is so dried up...but saw a few green sprouts along the trails yesterday so hope is alive!

    Next time I have a plant question should I take a picture peaking inside the flowers as well? Maybe that would have helped a bit more. Thanks everyone again!
     
  9. lmpifer1

    lmpifer1 Member

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    I just finished an article describing the differences between Galanthus nivalis and G. elwesii. The author, Kathleen Dickson from Fine Gardening, notes that there is a height difference as well as leaf width difference as well. The Snow drop I saw was about 6 to 8 inches tall. It seems that it is more likely a Galanthus elwesii. I was unaware of the possible 60 varities too. Thanks everyone for your assistance. I've learned a lot.

    Dickson, K. (n.d.). A flurry of snowdrops: For blossoms at winters end, plant a drift of bulbs this fall. Fine Gardening, 51, 39-41. Retrieved from http://www.finegardening.com/design/articles/planting-snowdrops-galanthus.aspx
     

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