Crocus
( KROH - kus )
At-A-Glance InformationThese low-growing perennials are native to the Mediterranean region and the Caucasus and grow from corms. They require full sun during blooming periods and light shade otherwise if the climate is warm and regular waterings during their growth and bloom periods. Leaves are grass-like and flower color and shape varies widely. Most bloom in winter or early springtime, though some bloom into fall. They are best when planted in masses. These plants are great for rock gardens, between stepping stones, and in container plantings. This genus contains the species that is used in the cultivation of the spice Saffron. Take care when planting Crocus flowers in your garden, as most species are poisonous to humans and pets.
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Crocus Species and Varietals
The genus Crocus includes around 100 species, and is a member of the plant family Iridaceae. Crocus grows best in zones 1-24, and will perform best in cold-winter areas. For more growing information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Crocus alatavicus This interestingly colored species of Crocus is native to the Middle East and Asia, and reaches 3-4 inches tall at maturity. Petals have black-purple stippling on the undersides, visible before flowers open to reveal yellow-orange stigmas and white petal surfaces. Flowers will bloom between February and May. |
Crocus angustifolius (Cloth of Gold Crocus) Formerly identified as Crocus susianus, this plant produces orange-gold flowers with brown stripes shaped like stars. They bloom in early winter and are native to Ukraine and Armennia. Leaves are narrow and grass-like, emerging in springtime. Flower petals commonly have maroon striping or markings on the undersides, most visible before the flowers open up. |
Crocus chrysanthus (Golden Crocus, Snow Crocus)
Flowers in this species are orange-yellow and sweetly fragrant. This species is native to the Balkans and Turkey. Hybrids come in a variety of flower colors including white, cream, yellow and blue marked with darker colors. The species true flower color is golden yellow. Blooms appear in springtime. Varieties are outlined below:
Flowers in this species are orange-yellow and sweetly fragrant. This species is native to the Balkans and Turkey. Hybrids come in a variety of flower colors including white, cream, yellow and blue marked with darker colors. The species true flower color is golden yellow. Blooms appear in springtime. Varieties are outlined below:
Crocus etruscus (Tuscan Crocus) This species is endemic to woodland areas in Tuscany, and produces lilac-colored flowers with purple veining and prominent orange stigmas. Blooms appear in late winter to early springtime. These plants are both widely cultivated as garden ornamentals and are considered endangered in their native habitat. |
Crocus goulimyi Flowers are a deep lavender-blue, and this species needs warmth and excellent drainage. these plants are endemic to Greece, and bloom in Fall. The species is named for Greek amateur botanist and lawyer Constantine Goulimis. Variety 'Mani White' is a white-flowering choice ornamental perfect for garden cultivation. |
Crocus korolkowii This species has bright yellow to bronze-yellow flowers that bloom in late winter. This is an especially cold-tolerant variety, native to central Asia and northern Pakistan. These plants naturally grow in rocky soils and flower between February and May in their native habitat. These bulbs are commonly grown as ornamentals outside of their natural range. |
Crocus sativus (Saffron Crocus, Autumn Crocus) In fall, lilac flowers bloom to reveal bright orange-red stigmas. This plant is the true Saffron plant; to harvest, pluck stigmas as soon as flowers open, then dry them and store them in glass or plastic vials. Divide corms when leaves turn brown and replant in fresh, improved soil. |
Crocus speciosus (Bieberstein's Crocus) These plants are native to northern and central Turkey, the Caucasus, northern Iran, Crimea, and Bulgaria. Vibrant blue-violet flowers bloom in early fall. This is one of the showiest Crocus species, and quickly multiplies, making it perfect for naturalizing in grassy areas. Variety 'Alba' has pure white flowers and other varieties have lavender and mauve blooms. |
Crocus tommasinianus (Woodland Crocus, Early Crocus, Tommasini's Crocus, Tommies) Flower buds are slender, and silvery lavender-blue flowers bloom early in the year. This is one of the smaller species of crocus, reaching just 3 inches tall when in bloom. These plants are native to Bulgaria, Hungary, Albania, and what was once Yugoslavia. Popularly grown ornamental varieties of this species include 'Ruby Giant', 'Whitewell Purple', 'Barr's Purple', 'Lilac Beauty', 'Albus', and 'Roseus'. |
Crocus tournefortii (Tournefort Crocus) This species is native to southern Greece and northern Crete, and reaches just under 4 inches tall when in bloom. Leaves are narrow and green, and flowers are light lavender to pale lilac in color, blooming in autumn and wintertime. These flowers are prized ornamentals. |
Crocus vernus (Dutch Crocus, Spring Crocus, Giant Crocus) These flowers come in shades of white, yellow, lavender and purple, often marked with darker stripes. This species blooms in late winter or early spring. This is the most vigorous Crocus species available for sale commercially, and is popularly grown as a garden ornamental in many climates. These hardy plants are native to the Alps, Pyrenees, and Balkans. |
Caring for crocus
These plants love porous, light soil. Corms should be planted 2-3 inches under the soil and 3-4 inches apart. They should be divided every three to four years. Crocus will not naturalize where winters are warm.
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 271, Crocus
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