Crocus FF Ochroleucus

Autumn White Crocus (Crocus ochroleucus) brightens the end of the growing season with elegant cup-shaped flowers in creamy white to ivory, highlighted by a golden-yellow centre. The blooms appear from October through November, when few other plants remain in flower, bringing refined beauty to autumn landscapes. Its fine, dark green foliage emerges after flowering and forms a discreet tuft before entering summer dormancy. Growing approximately 10 cm (4 in) tall, this hardy bulb, suitable to Zone 4, naturalizes easily and returns reliably each year when planted in well-drained soil.

Plant the bulbs from August through September, before the first hard frosts, approximately 10 cm (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 root development, then only during extended 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 completely so the bulbs can replenish their energy reserves for the following season.

Autumn White Crocus is perfectly suited to rock gardens, borders, gravel gardens, lightly mowed lawns, and alpine gardens. Planted in generous drifts, it gradually forms attractive naturalized colonies that extend the beauty of the garden well into late autumn. It pairs beautifully with hardy cyclamens, autumn crocuses, sedums, and small ornamental grasses. Its flowers also provide nectar and pollen for bees and other insects that remain active late in the season. It performs equally well in well-drained containers but is grown strictly for ornamental purposes and is not intended for consumption.