Galanthus ‘Dryad Gold Charm’ stands as one of the most distinctive cultivars from Anne Wright’s esteemed Dryad Gold Group. Like its famous sibling ‘Dryad Gold Sovereign’, it represents excellence in yellow snowdrop breeding, though with its own unique characteristics that set it apart.

Breeding and Characteristics

Part of the prestigious Dryad Gold Group, sharing parentage with Gold Sovereign: • Seed parent: Galanthus plicatus ‘Wendy’s Gold’ • Pollen parent: Galanthus nivalis ‘Lutescens’ (now classified under ‘Sandersii’) • Bred specifically for stable, easy-to-grow characteristicsWhat makes Dryad Gold Charm special: • Small stature with long teardrop-shaped flowers • Strong garden performance • Vigorous growth pattern • Stable yellow coloration • Compact size ideal for container growing • Natural ability to thrive in garden settingsThe flower structure features: • Flowering height: 10 cm (notably compact) • Distinctive teardrop-shaped flowers • Bright yellow inverted heart-shaped marking on inner segments • Narrow, yellow cylindrical ovary • Glaucous, arching leaves measuring approximately 5×50 mm

Growing Requirements and Garden Performance

Success with this snowdrop requires: • Humus-rich, well-draining soil • Partial shade position • Consistent moisture during growing season • Dry summer dormancy period • Planting depth of 7-10 cm • Protection from excessive winter wetLike Gold Sovereign, Gold Charm has proven to be: • A reliable performer • Excellent for naturalizing • Compatible with other snowdrops • Resilient to varying weather conditions • Strong enough to establish good clumps over time

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does Gold Charm differ from Gold Sovereign? A: Gold Charm flowers slightly later than Gold Sovereign and has a more compact growth habit. It features distinctive teardrop-shaped flowers compared to Sovereign’s more classical form.

Q: When does Gold Charm flower? A: It typically flowers in mid-to-late winter, slightly later than Dryad Gold Sovereign but earlier than Dryad Gold Medal.

Q: Is Gold Charm difficult to grow? A: No, it’s considered easier to grow than some other yellow cultivars, though it requires proper growing conditions including well-draining soil and partial shade.

Q: Where can I buy Gold Charm? A: It’s primarily available through Dryad Nursery’s summer bulb list and occasional eBay auctions (seller: dryadzny), though availability is limited.

Q: What is the typical price for Gold Charm? A: Due to its rarity, prices typically range from £100-£150 per bulb when available.

Q: Can Gold Charm be grown in containers? A: Yes, its compact size makes it particularly well-suited for container growing as well as naturalizing in the garden.