While January might seem like a dormant month in the garden, it is a time of quiet beauty when we stop to admire.

Some of the jewels of January, which remind us that there is still life in the garden include snowdrops, Helleborus orientalis, and other beauties that come into their own at this time.

Snowdrops or Galanthus to give them their botanical name are among the first flowers to emerge in the new year, earning their place as January’s most synonymous flower. Their delicate white petals, shaped like drops of snow, are like little sparkling jewels in the snow and frost covered soil.

It may surprise you to learn that not all snowdrops are equal There are many varieties of snowdrops from which to choose. The classic, Galanthus nivalis is an easy to grow and reliable choice, while the giant snowdrop, Galanthus elwesii produces larger flowers. There are about 25 species of Galanthus and hundreds, if not thousands of varieties and cultivars, as new forms are being bred every year.

A Galantophile is is a person who is passionate