Introduction:
When collectors and enthusiasts eagerly seek the rarest and most unique varieties, the price they are willing to pay seems to have no limits. These delicate flowers, known scientifically as Galanthus, have captured the hearts of many, leading to record-breaking sales that might astonish those unfamiliar with the passionate world of snowdrop collecting.

The Record Breakers:

A Timeline of Record-Breaking Snowdrops

1. The Mysterious £226 Snowdrop (2008)
The story begins in 2008 with a snowdrop bulb that set a world record by selling for £226. Despite my efforts, the specific name of this snowdrop remains a mystery. If you happen to know which variety this was, please do let me know so I can update this post!

2. Green Tear Snowdrop (2011)
Fast forward, and we meet the ‘Green Tear’ snowdrop. It was once the most expensive snowdrop, fetching £360. Known for its unique beauty, ‘Green Tear’ held the price record before being surpassed by its successors.

3. Galanthus woronowii ‘Elizabeth Harrison’ (2012)
In 2012, the snowdrop world witnessed a new champion: Galanthus woronowii ‘Elizabeth Harrison’, sold for an astounding £725. Its golden yellow ovary and petal markings distinguished it from its peers, making it a highly coveted specimen.

4. Galanthus ‘Golden Fleece’ (2015)
In 2015, Galanthus ‘Golden Fleece’ made headlines when it was auctioned for £1,390. This sale further illustrated the growing interest and value in unique Galanthus bulbs among collectors.

5. Galanthus plicatus ‘Golden Tears’ (2022)
There was yet another leap in prices with Galanthus plicatus ‘Golden Tears’. In 2022, it sold for a breathtaking £1,850, setting a new benchmark in the snowdrop market.

6. 2024: ‘Gold Hill’ – Watch This Space
Looking to the future, the snowdrop community is buzzing with anticipation for the release of Joe Sharman’s ‘Gold Hill’ in 2024. While details are sparse, the excitement it’s generating suggests that it might be the next big sensation in the world of snowdrops.

From the £226 snowdrop of 2008 to the eagerly awaited ‘Gold Hill’, each of these Galanthus varieties has contributed to the fascinating narrative of these beloved winter flowers. Their beauty, rarity, and the stories they carry continue to captivate enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Stay tuned for more updates, especially on ‘Gold Hill’!

Update February 2024: could it be Galanthus ‘Princess Mattie’ from Monksilver Nursery that breaks the record in 2024!?!

See Snowdrop Garden home page for more galanthus related content!