Mind that snowdrop, it could net you £725
FANCY a stroll to lift the winter gloom? Watch your step if your walk takes you through a drift of snowdrops – they could be worth a small fortune.
Millions of the spectacular winter flowers are expected to bloom this month, but few nature lovers will be aware that rare varieties can fetch hundreds of pounds.
The most valuable is Galanthus woronowii ‘Elizabeth Harrison’, a single bulb of which was sold on eBay in 2012 for a record £725.
Named after a Perthshire woman in whose garden it was first spotted, it is distinguished by its yellow ovary distinctive bell-shaped part at its top, as well as golden markings on its petals. George Plumptre, chief executive of the National Garden Scheme, said: ‘The reason this flower cost so much was because it was something different, something that looked distinctive and it was genetically very strong – it was going to thrive.’
There are about 20 species of galanthus – meaning ‘milk flower’ – in the UK, but up to 3,000 variations, and a rising number of galanthophiles – snowdrop collectors – are willing to pay large sums for non-native species.
The National Garden Scheme is running a snowdrop festival this month, with more than 90 gardens opening their gates to fans.
Mr Plumptre said: ‘Snowdrops are a perfect antidote to the winter blues.’