Galanthomania in the US
Mark McDonough (Sun, 26 Feb 2012 08:40:18 PST)

I must admit, I do not understand the obsessive fascination with
Galanthus. As I typically do, let me preface this message: I find
snowdrops utterly delightful little plants; perfectly charming
harbingers of spring (and an autumn one or two), what's not to like
about them? But when we get right down to it, these little "snow
dumplings" are white white white, with a dab of green. How many
variations of white with green markings can there be? Apparently
thousands. Should they all be named? Maybe, maybe not; but if it brings
considerable enjoyment to Galanthophiles, then so be it. When I observe
photos of myriad named snowdrops, many at exorbitant high price, to my
eye there's a niveous sameness to so many of them, I can hardly tell
them apart, insufficient distinction to pry even a few dollars out of my
wallet if they were available.

Now, I certainly wouldn't mind having one of the so-called yellow
galanthus (yellowish peduncles and yellowish markings on the white
petals), but even so, wouldn't pay much for it, I don't suppose I'll
ever have one. Now if only there were Galanthus with pink flowers, or
any color other than white and green. If I were to spring $50 for a
plant, would much rather buy one of the newer Cypripedium hybrids that
come in a fascinating array of colors and rich markings.

Long and short of it, I don't think Galathomania will catch on in the
US; there will of course be dedicated followers of the genus here, but
no where close to the fervent popularity it enjoys in the UK and
elsewhere in Europe.

Mark McDonough
antennaria@charter.net
Massachusetts, USDA Zone 5