Crocus FF Cartwrightianus

Cartwright's Crocus (Crocus cartwrightianus) produces an elegant and unexpected autumn display with delicate lilac to pale violet flowers, often highlighted by fine purple veining. Their deep red stamens stand out prominently at the centre of each bloom, creating a striking contrast that enhances their beauty. The flowers appear from September through October, before or at the same time as the narrow, dark green foliage. Growing only 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4 in) tall, this crocus gradually forms attractive naturalized colonies. Hardy to Zone 4, it returns reliably each year when planted in well-drained soil.

Plant the bulbs from August through September, before the first hard frosts, 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4 in) deep and 7 to 10 cm (3 to 4 in) apart. Choose a location in full sun or light partial shade with light, fertile, neutral to slightly alkaline soil that remains relatively dry during summer. Water lightly after planting to encourage rooting, then only during unusually dry periods while the plants are actively growing. A small amount of compost at planting is generally sufficient. After flowering, allow the foliage to yellow naturally so the bulbs can replenish their energy reserves for the following season.

Cartwright's Crocus is especially well suited to rock gardens, borders, gravel gardens, lightly mowed lawns, and alpine gardens. Planted in generous drifts, it creates a natural autumn carpet of flowers that extends the beauty of the garden after most perennials have finished blooming. It pairs beautifully with autumn crocuses, hardy cyclamens, sedums, and ornamental grasses. Its flowers also provide nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators that remain active late in the season. Although closely related to the saffron crocus, this variety is grown strictly for its ornamental value and is not intended for consumption.