Family: Amaryllidaceae
Author: (L.) Sweet
Bibliography: Brit. Fl. Gard. 3: t. 297 (1829)
Year: 1829
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Acis
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. & WC. Medit.
Description
The Autumn snowflake, scientifically known as Acis autumnalis, is a delicate and charming member of the Amaryllidaceae family. This bulbous perennial is native to the warm climates of the Western and Western-Central Mediterranean regions, thriving in these locales thanks to its adaptability to Mediterranean weather patterns.
First described formally in 1829, the Autumn snowflake was chronicled in the British Flower Garden (Brit. Fl. Gard. 3: t. 297), with the esteemed authority attribution to (L.) Sweet. This historical botanical reference highlights the longstanding recognition of the plant’s unique qualities within the horticultural community.
Despite its delicate appearance, the Autumn snowflake is remarkably hardy. The plant typically blooms in late summer to early autumn, adding a touch of elegance to gardens when many other plants are beginning to decline. Each slender stem bears clusters of dainty, bell-shaped white flowers, sometimes subtly tinged with pink. These charming blossoms are complemented by narrow, grass-like leaves, which provide a lush green backdrop even when the flowers have faded.
Ideal for rock gardens, borders, and naturalized planting areas, the Autumn snowflake prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate periods of dryness, making it a suitable candidate for Mediterranean-type gardens. Its modest requirements make it an easy addition to various garden settings, where it can bring late-season beauty and a sense of timeless grace.
In cultivation, Acis autumnalis doesn’t demand excessive care, thriving with minimal intervention while rewarding gardeners with its elegant blossoms. Whether set against the backdrop of a traditional garden or interspersed among more modern plantings, the Autumn snowflake offers a reliable and visually appealing option for late-season color and interest.
Common Names
Eng: autumn snowflake
Spa: azucenas de san martín
Por: campainhas-do-outono
En: Autumn Snowflake
Pt: Campainhas-do-outono
Es: Azucenas de San Martín
: Autumn snowflake
Synonyms
- Leucojum auctumnale (J.F.Gmel.)
- Acis autumnalis var. oporantha ((Jord. & Fourr.) Lledó, A.P.Davis & M.B.Crespo)
- Leucojum autumnale var. pulchellum ((Jord. & Fourr.) Maire)
- Acis autumnalis var. pulchella ((Jord. & Fourr.) Lledó, A.P.Davis & M.B.Crespo)
- Acis oporantha (Jord. & Fourr.)
- Acis pulchella (Jord. & Fourr.)
- Leucojum autumnale var. diphyllum (Maire)
- Leucojum autumnale var. oporanthum ((Jord. & Fourr.) Maire)
- Ruminia hyemalis (Parl.)
- Leucojum autumnale (L.)
Distribution
- Algeria (native)
- Baleares (native)
- Morocco (native)
- Portugal (native)
- Sardegna (native)
- Sicilia (native)
- Spain (native)
- Tunisia (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Sep 7, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Patrick LEBOULENGER (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 17, 2019 by Marion Uedema (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 11, 2019 by Charles Buddendorf (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 26, 2022 by Noah Hauck (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 21, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Patrick LEBOULENGER (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Oct 21, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Patrick LEBOULENGER (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 21, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Patrick LEBOULENGER (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 7, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Patrick LEBOULENGER (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5326565)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:77084799-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Acis autumnalis (L.) Sweet)