Purple Crocus

Purple Crocus (Crocus tommasinianus ‘Purple’) is a charming bulbous perennial that announces the arrival of spring with its rich violet blooms. From February through March, its cup-shaped flowers open wide in the sunshine to reveal bright yellow-orange stamens. Fine, dark green foliage accented with a distinctive silvery stripe forms delicate clumps reaching 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4 in) tall. Hardy to Zone 4, this botanical crocus easily withstands Quebec winters and naturalizes quickly, creating a generous carpet of flowers year after year.

Plant the bulbs from September through November, before the ground freezes, approximately 8 cm (3 in) deep and 5 to 8 cm (2 to 3 in) apart. Choose a location in full sun or light partial shade with light, fertile soil that remains fresh in spring and drains exceptionally well. Water lightly after planting, then only during unusually dry periods. After flowering, allow the foliage to yellow completely so the bulbs can replenish their energy reserves. A light application of compost in autumn or early spring is generally sufficient. Avoid heavy, constantly wet soils.

Purple Crocus is ideal for rock gardens, borders, naturalized lawns, beneath deciduous trees, and spring containers. Planted in generous groups, it quickly forms beautiful violet colonies that add depth and colour to the garden from late winter onward. Pair it with snowdrops, grape hyacinths, scillas, and other small spring bulbs to create colourful, natural-looking displays. Its early flowers also provide valuable nectar and pollen for the first bees and other spring pollinating insects. The flowers are grown strictly for ornamental purposes and are not intended for consumption.