Yellow Mammoth Crocus

Yellow Mammoth Crocus (Crocus flavus ‘Yellow Mammoth’) is a charming bulbous perennial that brightens the garden with the first signs of spring. From March through April, its large, vivid yellow flowers open widely in the sunshine, revealing bright orange stamens. Fine, dark green foliage accented with a distinctive silvery stripe forms compact clumps reaching 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 in) tall, providing the perfect backdrop for its cheerful blooms. Hardy to Zone 3, this variety performs reliably in cold Canadian climates and returns faithfully year after year when grown in well-drained soil.

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, waterlogged soils and excessive moisture during summer dormancy.

Yellow Mammoth Crocus is ideal for rock gardens, borders, naturalized lawns, beneath deciduous trees, and spring containers. Planted in generous drifts, it naturalizes quickly and gradually forms brilliant golden carpets of flowers. Pair it with snowdrops, grape hyacinths, scillas, botanical daffodils, and other small spring bulbs to create colourful, natural-looking displays with striking contrast. Its early flowers also provide valuable nectar and pollen for the first bees and other pollinating insects active during the first mild days of spring. The flowers are grown strictly for ornamental purposes and are not intended for consumption.