Growing Crocus

Botanical Name:

Crocus

Life Cycle:

Perennial bulb

Planting Time:

Spring or fall, for blooms in 4-6 months.

Height:

3 to 6 inches

Exposure:

Full sun

Soil:

Poor to average, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Zones 3 to 9

Bloom Time:

Early spring or early fall

Flower:

Yellow, purple, lavender and white blooms

Foliage:

Green

Propagation:

Corms

Suggested Use:

Beds, borders and containers

Growing Hints:

Buy spring flowering crocus corms to plant in the fall (or vice versa). Plant in groups of a dozen or more for the best show. Plant them at a depth of 3 to 4 inches spaced about 3 inches apart.

Interesting Facts:

The small red parts in the center of each crocus sativa bloom are the source of saffron; the spice used to add delicate flavor to dishes or used to color food yellow. To save your own saffron: after your crocus blooms, remove and dry the red stigma from the flower and store in an airtight container.

Note: There are many varieties of crocus. Make sure you have the correct variety, Crocus Sativa, before you try using the stigmas for cooking. Some varieties of crocus are poisonous.