snowdrop

Everyday

A snowdrop is a small plant with a white flower that hangs down like a drop; it is one of the first flowers to bloom at the end of winter, sometimes while snow is still on the ground. tree →

In the lessons

Nature and science: snowdrops grow from bulbs and flower in January to March in the UK and Ireland, a sign that spring is coming. Each flower has three outer white petals and a small inner cup with green marks. In stories and poems, snowdrops stand for hope and new beginnings. Safety: snowdrop bulbs are poisonous if eaten.

Examples

• The first snowdrops appeared under the hedge in February. tree →
• Snowdrops hang their white heads like little lamps. tree →
• We counted snowdrops on our nature walk. tree →
• Don't eat snowdrop bulbs; they are poisonous. tree →
• Grandma planted snowdrops under the old apple tree. tree →
• The snowdrops pushed up through the frost. tree →
• In the poem, the snowdrop is a sign of hope. tree →

Note

Countable, one word. Name comes from the flower looking like a drop (an earring) in the snow. Not the same as a snowflake. Its scientific name is Galanthus.