This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in spring, then fresh new growth appears again in autumn or winter.

• Position: partial shade
• Soil: moderately-fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: January to March
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Sublime, early-flowering groundcover, that will liven up the area beneath established trees, or extend the period of interest in an alpine bed or rock garden. The fresh green foliage emerges at around the same time as the flowers in winter and early spring. The flowers are exquisite, being held on slender stems above the foliage, and with windswept white petals with just a brush of claret at their base. If the budget allows, plant them in bold drifts, or keep them in a pot where they can be admired up close. Please be aware that this plant will die back completely to below ground level during the warmer months.
  
  
• Garden care: Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted leaf mould around the crown of the plants in spring as the foliage starts to die back.