Just like Veronica at Through the Garden Gate, I’ve been peering into other people’s front gardens (this one in Maida Vale). Although I’m usually more partial to a blaze of colour: masses of daffodils or riotous tulips, I saw this arresting virginal combination of snowdrops and white crocuses the other day and it really moved me. I love this simple but heavenly effect and plan on borrowing the idea for next spring in my own small patch.
And I don’t think these are just any old snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis) either. Possibly Galanthus S. Arnott (please correct me if you know better!), a gorgeous, gently-scented taller variety which looks so great planted alongside these bold snowy blooms.
Again, I’m not sure which variety this Crocus is, but Peter Nyssen have a large white Crocus ‘Jeanne D’Arc’ (15cm tall) which is now on my wish list for ordering later in the year.
These mega Crocuses also looked rather charming as underplanting in pots of Hydrangeas and I shall be keeping an eye open (and camera at the ready) for how these borders and pots progress.
Natalie Witt 