Flowers of Galanthus sps. 'Snowdrops', 'Fair Maid of February'

As early as February, there are subtle signs of spring in a much dormant woodland. A glimpse at the base of a woodland ground or the tips of branches can give out ample clues. Either the branches are prepped with the swollen leaf /flower buds or tender buds are trying to push out of the leaf litter, or in some cases, it is a full grown mature flower all surrounded by leaves, like the Galanthus sps.

Galanthus sps. 'Snowdrops', 'Fair Maid of February', in full bloom

Galanthus has many common names; the most common is Snowdrops. The genus origin traces back to Europe and some common names include: the English name 'Fair maids of February'; 'Candlemas bells' or 'perce-niege' ('snow piercer' in French); and 'schneeglocken' ('snowbells' in German). There is a speculation that snowdrops might have been brought to England by the pilgrims from Rome. (https://blog.metmuseum.org/cloistersgardens/2009/02/20/fair-maids-of-february/)

Tender buds of 'Galanthus sps. 'Snowdrops', 'Fair Maid of February'