January Birth Flower - The Snowdrop

People born in the month of January have two birth flowers - the carnation and snowdrop. But, whether they are your "birth" flowers or not, why not read on for more about the history, meaning, and symbolism of these flowers.

As mentioned above, the traditional January birth flowers are the carnation and the snowdrop, this post is just about the snowdrop, if you haven't seen my earlier post about the carnation you can find it here

The Snowdrop

Notably, the earliest garden flower to bloom, the snowdrop (Galanthus), emerges in late winter or early spring, sometimes when snow is still on the ground.

Snowdrop History
Although native to the cooler mountainous, wooded, and grassland regions of southern Europe and Asia Minor, snowdrops have since been naturalized in the United States.

Extract of the snowdrop was used by the ancient Greeks for its mind-altering effects. Used as a folk remedy for various ailments, the snowdrop is thought to have been brought to Europe by monks and midwives for medicinal use.

Snowdrop Meanings and Symbolism
The snowdrop’s genus name, Galanthus, is derived from the Greek words gala (milk) and anthos (flower), referencing the flower’s pure white appearance.

Snowdrops are used to express both sympathy and celebration. During happy times, it is thought to provide optimism and hope, but following a death or misfortune, it symbolizes compassion. Innocence is also linked to the snowdrop because of its colour.

A single snowdrop bloom brought inside was once believed to represent death, as it was traditionally known to grow in graveyards. Nowadays, this delicate flower, often one of the first to poke through the snow in late winter, signifies hope and beauty.

Snowdrop Flower Myths and Legends
Snowdrops have long been associated with myths and legends across cultures. To the ancient Greeks, the flowers were known as Moly. The god Hermes gave them to humans to help them fight mental confusion caused by witchcraft.

The flowers play a role in Christian mythology, too. After being cast out of the Garden of Eden, Eve sat sobbing in the cold, bitter wind. An angel took pity on her and breathed on a snowflake, sending it fluttering down to earth. Where the snow landed, snowdrops grew.

Amongst pagans, the snowdrop is associated with the beginning of spring, as it is thought that the arrival of the first blooming flower signifies the end of winter.

In Romania, the flowers are known as “Daughter of the Wind.” Legend has it that each year, the sun returns to Earth at winter’s end as a young girl. One year, winter didn’t want to let go and kidnap the girl. Her beau fought the winter to free her and was wounded in the process. Where his blood spilled, snowdrops grew.

Moldovans have a similar folktale. One year, the Winter Witch refused to give up her reign, so Lady Spring fought her. The Lady pricked her finger, and snowdrops grew where her blood fell.

In Germany, legend says that God sent snow to visit every flower to decide what colour they would be. The flowers were rude, except for the snowdrop. As a reward, snowdrops were allowed to bloom first but had to agree to give up their colour.

Snowdrops in the Garden
As small plants, snowdrops are best suited for areas near walks, pathways, or elevated gardens. They look best when at least three or four are planted together.

Grow snowdrops in an area that receives full sun during the spring when the foliage is apparent.

Woodland settings are also ideal for snowdrops. They will return each year if winter low temperatures reach at least 20°F but no colder than -30°F.

Snowdrop bulbs contain the alkaloid galantamine. When ingested in large quantities, they are toxic to cats and dogs and mildly toxic to humans.

To Conclude
Often the first flowers to emerge from the snow in late winter or spring, the delicate, beautiful snowdrop is a symbol of hope and renewal. To the Victorians, the snowdrop signified bad luck and sympathy, but the flowers also stand for inspiration and rebirth. These lovely blossoms grace any floral gift with their pure white colour and sweet fragrance.

Words above (and more) can be seen here and here

~ wishing you a happy day ~

Dear reader, within this blog you will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan