Chionodoxa forbesii ‘Pink Giant’

As we approach the fall planting season, I would like to highlight a beautiful selection of glory-of-the-snow, Chionodoxa.  Chionodoxa fobesii ‘Pink Giant’ is considered one of the “smaller bulbs.”  This group of bulbs includes snowdrops, Galanthus; squills, Scilla; snowflakes, Leucojum; grape hyacinth, Muscari; etc. The “smaller bulbs” are great for using in large naturalistic masses in the garden.

Star-shaped flowers of Chionodoxa forbesii 'Pink Giant'. photo credit: Brent and Becky Bulbs

Chiododoxa forbesii ‘Pink Giant’ reaches only  6 to 8 inches tall.  However, the flowers are relatively large for a Chionodoxa.  The star-shaped, six-petaled flowers are bubblegum-pink and skyward facing.

At the Arboretum, we have used Chionodoxa among other “smaller bulbs” in the Harry Wood Garden.  In the panels at Wharton Courtyard, they create a groundcover of pink just as the magnificent saucer magnolias, Magnolia x soulangiana are coming into flower.

The bubblegum-pink flowers of Chionodoxa forbesii 'Pink Giant'. photo credit: Brent and Becky Bulbs

Unlike tulips, crocus, and hyacinths, all Chionodoxa are deer resistant.  Plant these bulbs three inches deep before early November.   They can be planted among other bulbs but also do well amid deciduous herbaceous plants such as Epimedium, Hosta, and Tiarella.

Members of the Scott Arboretum will receive this delightful bulb as their fall dividend at the Fall Festival on Saturday, October 15 at 4 pm. Become a member today to add this bulb to your garden.