SafePlants

Crocus: A Burst of Color in the Garden

Crocus is a genus of approximately 90 species of perennial flowering plants belonging to the iris family (Iridaceae). Often called "Dutch crocus", these plants are cultivated for their vibrant flowers that appear in the autumn, winter, or spring, depending on the species.

Considerations for Pets

• Newspapers have reported that a substance found in the autumn crocus has been turned into a drug.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Crocus
• Family: Iridaceae (iris family)
• Common Name: Dutch crocus
• Species (Example): Crocus vernus
• Cultivar (Example): 'Pickwick'
• Species (Example): Crocus hadriaticus (Adriatic crocus)
• Species (Example): Crocus tommasinianus
• Species (Example): Crocus ancyrensis
• Species (Example): Crocus sativus (Saffron Crocus)
• Synonyms/Alternative Names: Autumn crocus is also a name given to meadow saffron, even though it isn't actually a crocus.

Distribution and Habitat

• Many autumn flowering Crocus species originate from the Mediterranean area and Turkey.
• Crocus baytopiorum was discovered in 1973.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Crocus plants are perennials that grow from corms.
• Crocus hadriaticus is a cormous perennial with narrow leaves that appear at flowering time in autumn.
• Flowers are goblet-shaped.

Ecological Role

• Crocus nudiflorus is mentioned as not being a native plant.

Quirky Facts

• The purple crocus is the symbol of Rotary’s worldwide campaign to eradicate polio.
• The Crocus is found via foraging at Pelican Town in the Winter or grown from Winter wild seeds.

Cultivation

• Skill Level: Beginner
• Exposure: Full sun
• Hardiness: Hardy
• Crocus are suitable for planting in rockeries and naturalizing in grass.
• They are best grown along walkways, around the base of trees.

Further Information

• Thompson & Morgan (supplier of crocus bulbs)
• Crocus.co.uk (online garden center)
• Sarah Raven (supplier of Crocus tommasinianus)
• Collins English Dictionary