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Crocus laevigatus 'Fontenayi'
It provides an important early nectar source for spring pollinators. Its delicate flowers announce the arrival of spring and enhance naturalized gardens for many years.
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Product information
Bulb
identification
identification
Common nameFontenayi Crocus
Latin nameCrocus laevigatus ‘Fontenayi’
FamilyIridaceae
CyclePerennial
Bulb typeBulb
Quantity per pack10 bulbs
Product
description
description
Fontenayi Crocus (Crocus laevigatus ‘Fontenayi’) is a charming perennial bulb prized for its exceptionally early bloom, brightening the garden at the very beginning of spring. Its delicate white flowers, lightly flushed with lavender, emerge above fine green foliage and gracefully announce the arrival of the new growing season. Planted in groups, it gradually forms attractive natural-looking carpets of flowers. Hardy to Zone 4 and capable of tolerating temperatures down to approximately -34°C (-30°F), this crocus is particularly well suited to Quebec gardens when grown in consistently well-drained soil.
Plant Fontenayi Crocus bulbs in autumn before the ground freezes, approximately 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4 in) deep. It thrives in full sun or light partial shade, especially beneath deciduous trees where abundant spring sunlight reaches the ground before the canopy develops. A light, humus-rich, well-drained soil is ideal, while heavy soils can be improved with sand or fine gravel. Water lightly after planting, then only during unusually dry periods. After flowering, allow the foliage to yellow naturally so the bulbs can replenish their energy reserves for the following season.
Fontenayi Crocus is perfectly suited to rock gardens, borders, naturalized lawns, beneath deciduous trees, or well-drained spring containers. For the most natural and eye-catching display, plant the bulbs in generous drifts and combine them with snowdrops, grape hyacinths, scillas, or miniature daffodils. Once established, it requires very little maintenance and gradually multiplies through offsets, creating increasingly abundant colonies over time. Its exceptionally early flowers also provide an important nectar source for the first bees and other pollinators that become active during the first mild days of spring.
Main
benefit
benefit
Garden
placement
placement
Where to plant
Ideal for rock gardens, naturalized lawns, borders, and beneath deciduous trees. Plant in generous drifts for a bright, natural display. It pairs beautifully with snowdrops, grape hyacinths, scillas, and miniature daffodils. Once established, it requires very little maintenance and naturalizes beautifully over time.
Care level
Easy
Planting
and care
and care
ExposureFull sun to partial shade. A bright location encourages abundant flowering and excellent naturalization.
Planting periodAutumn
Planting depth8 to 10 cm (3 to 4 in)
Rooting temperature10 to 15°C (50 to 59°F)
Hardiness zoneZone 4
WateringWater lightly after planting, then only during exceptionally dry periods. Well-drained soil is essential to prevent bulb rot.
Soil typeLight, humus-rich, well-drained soil with low moisture retention during summer. Heavy soils benefit from the addition of sand or fine gravel.
Soil pHNeutral to slightly alkaline
FertilizationIncorporate a small amount of mature compost at planting. A light application of fertilizer in autumn or immediately after flowering is usually sufficient. Avoid excessive nitrogen.
Container
growing
growing
Seasonal
care
care
Bloom,
harvest
and garden
harvest
and garden
Bloom periodEarly spring
Flower colorWhite lightly flushed with lavender
HarvestNot applicable
Companion plantsSnowdrops, grape hyacinths, scillas, and miniature daffodils provide complementary blooms and create beautiful natural spring carpets.
Plants to avoidBulbs may occasionally be dug up by squirrels or voles. Excess moisture in heavy soils can lead to corm rot.
Wildlife appealBees and early pollinators
Size
and growth
and growth
Height5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 in)
Spread5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 in)
Growth rateModerate
Rooting / establishment30 to 60 days
Frequently asked questions
The availability of our bulbs, cloves, tubers, rhizomes, seeds and plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may only be available for a limited time, depending on their natural cycle, planting period or available stock. These product pages are designed to guide and inspire your plant choices for the garden, vegetable garden, landscaping, container growing or sustainable outdoor projects.
