Best Spring bulb

Published on Tuesday 24 February 2009 18:38

Whatever the weather, these little gems will pop through to remind you that spring is just around the corner.

1. SNOWDROP (Galanthus nivalis] Delights us all with its early show and often pokes through a covering of snow – the colder the weather, the longer flowers last. The nodding bell-like flowers look like little drops of milk, hence the Latin Galanthus ("milk-white flowers"). Subtle characteristics captivate enthusiasts (Galanthophiles) who seek out variations in form and colour. Best planted "in the green" rather than dry bulbs. Lift clumps as foliage yellows in March, divide and replant.

2. WINTER ACONITE (Eranthis hyemalis] Like a little ray of sunshine from early February with buttercup-like yellow flowers surrounded by a 'ruff' of bright green leaves. They are, in fact, part of the buttercup family and so enjoy the same humus-rich, partially shaded position as their more invasive cousins. Plant in groups in the rock garden, shrubbery or woodland garden.

3. CROCUS (Crocus tommasinianus] Some say this is a weed and by definition it is (it self-seeds very freely), but it has a charming sense of calm – drifting in swathes through borders and beneath trees, the pale lilac to dark purple flowers bring harmony, peace and a sense of what is to come. Dig up a small clump, plant up in an old terracotta pot, dress with moss and bring indoors to enjoy.

4. CYCLAMEN (Cyclamen coum] Well-known as houseplants, less so as garden plants, which is a shame as the delicate flowers produced outdoors are a treat. The nodding dainty blooms with twisted petals come in all shades, from white through pink to carmine red, and the leaves are an equally attractive dark green with silver markings. As the flowers fade, watch how the stalk coils down to the surface to release the ripe seed.

5. DWARF IRIS (Iris reticulata] Comes in varying shades of blue and purple with a delicate fragrance. The large flowers have six petals, three upright and three 'falls' and need to be seen up close to appreciate their intricate markings. Include these bulbs in your spring window-boxes and enjoy them from the comfort of your living room on chilly days. Dwarf Iris will survive dry summers so are also an ideal candidate for the rockery.