Acis (plant)
Acis is a genus of bulbous flowering plants in the family Amaryllidaceae, native to Europe and North Africa. Formerly included within the genus Leucojum, Acis was re-established as a distinct genus based on morphological and molecular differences. Plants in the genus are commonly known as snowdrops or snowflake flowers, although this name can cause confusion as it is more widely applied to species of Galanthus.
Acis species are characterized by their narrow, grass-like leaves and nodding, bell-shaped flowers. The flowers are typically white, often with green or yellow markings at the tips of the tepals (petal-like segments). They bloom in spring or early summer, depending on the species and location.
The genus Acis includes several recognized species, including:
- Acis autumnalis (Autumn Snowflake)
- Acis fabrei
- Acis ionica
- Acis longifolia
- Acis nicaeensis
- Acis tingitana
- Acis valentina
Acis plants are often cultivated in gardens for their delicate beauty and early blooming period. They prefer well-drained soil and a sunny or partially shaded location. They can be propagated by bulb offsets or by seed.