I always enjoy a drive out into the countryside at this time of year – stopping at lay-bys and scanning the area, hoping to catch sight of the first snowdrops.

This beautiful little plant often provides a much-welcomed splash of colour in the otherwise dull greyness of winter. Snowdrops are also known by a variety of other names such as Candle-mass Bells, Fair Maids of February, White Ladies and Dingle Dangle, to name but a few.

The name snowdrop really came into its own around the 15th to 17th Century, when ladies of the time wore earrings known as ear drops. These were fashioned after the delicate drop-like petals of the plant.

But for me, snowdrops are best summed up by their scientific name, Galanthus Nivalis. Galanthus is a combination of two Greek words: ‘Gala’ meaning milk and ‘Anthos’ meaning flower. Nivalis comes from the Latin, meaning snow.

So, scientifically speaking, snowdrops are ‘milk flowers of the snow.’ I can’t think of a better way to describe them than that.

Snowdrops propagate by dividing their bulbs and can be found in huge numbers, creating a truly beautiful sight. I love looking out for these plants as they give me the feeling that spring has arrived early – especially when seeing the occasional bumblebee buzzing around them on a mild sunny day.

In a world dominated by technology, I’m grateful that such a small plant can give so much pleasure – proving that nature still has a lot to offer.

LB?Loxley.