They are one of the most welcome winter sights, their white bell-shaped flowers brightening up a dull border or in large drifts in a woodland area and there are many varieties for beds, borders and containers.
Some, including G. Elwesii, produce a wonderful scent of honey, while G. Nivalis 'S. Arnott' bears larger than average flowers and grows to 10in.
If you want a double form, go for 'Flore Pleno' with its globular flowers. They thrive in moist soil and light shade and, depending on the species you choose, flower from January to March.
Mature clumps need dividing after flowering and then replanting immediately.
