Chionodoxa (Glory of the Snow)

Chionodoxa’s early spring blooms (February – March) are a lifeline for emerging pollinators, including the buff-tailed bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) and the hairy-footed flower bee (Anthophora plumipes). Its star-shaped flowers provide accessible pollen and nectar when few other sources exist, bridging the winter-to-spring gap. Planted in drifts under deciduous trees or in rockeries, these bulbs naturalise easily, creating carpets of blue that sustain insects while tolerating shade. Though non-native, Chionodoxa’s ecological timing aligns with UK pollinators’ needs, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens seeking early-season colour and biodiversity.