Content
- What is the difference between lilies of the valley and snowdrops?
- Similarities between lilies of the valley and snowdrops
- This is where the two types of flowers differ
- Different flowers and fruits
- Both spring flowers are poisonous
- Different flowering times
- Tips
At first glance, lilies of the valley and snowdrops differ in their flower form
What is the difference between lilies of the valley and snowdrops?
Lilies of the valley and snowdrops are among the best-known spring bloomers. In appearance, the two white-flowered flowers have some similarities. A confusion is almost impossible because of the different flowering time. When the lilies of the valley sprout, snowdrops have long faded.
Similarities between lilies of the valley and snowdrops
Both plant species have green leaves and white flowers - and they bloom in spring. But these are pretty much the only similarities. Differences between the two plant species are much more.
This is where the two types of flowers differ
Lily of the valley belongs to the family of the asparagus plants, while snowdrops belong to the Amaryllisgewächsen.
The leaves of the lily of the valley are green, sometimes variegated. They have the shape of a lancet and look very similar to the leaves of wild garlic. Snowdrop leaves are much narrower and have a medium green color.
Different flowers and fruits
When Schneegilöckchen appears per stalk, a single flower that hangs drop-shaped. In the case of lilies of the valley, long stems are formed, in which up to 20 flowers are lined up like a leash. They smell much stronger than the flowers of the snowdrop.
The inconspicuous fruit of the snowdrop forms immediately after flowering in April. Lilies of the valley develop showy red berries, which are mature only in late summer.
Snowdrops have as roots small nodules, also called flower bulbs. Lilies of the valley drift from rhizomes, which are also sold as onions, but are thickened storage organs.
Both spring flowers are poisonous
The snowdrop contains alkaloids that are slightly toxic. The lily of the valley is one of the most poisonous plants due to various toxins.
Different flowering times
The most important difference is the flowering season. Snowdrops even drift under snowpacks and bloom from January to February, occasionally until March.
The flowering time of the lily of the valley begins at the end of April and extends into June. At this time, there is hardly anything left of the snowdrop as the plant has retreated.
Tips
The flower of the snowdrop is always white with a slightly greenish edge. Lilies of the valley are available in different varieties. Among them are also those who wear pink flowers.