Species of the Week - Spring Crocus /Dutch Crocus/Giant Crocus

The Spring Crocus (Crocus vernus), otherwise known as the Dutch Crocus or Giant Crocus (see - this is why we use latin names!) is an ornamental flower native to the Alps, the Pyrenees, and the Balkans. They were introduced to the US by humans, and can be found in somewhat random areas, including Massachusetts, Oregon, Virginia, Utah, and Ontario, CA. They are generally bright, mostly purple, and can grow between 10-15 cm tall. The Spring Crocus generally flowers for about three weeks at the onset of spring, and go dormant during late spring. While flowering, they close at night and open up in the morning, but often remain closed on cloudy days.

There are many cultivars of Crocus vernus that are used as ornamental plants. Cultivars are varieties of a species which are selectively bred for specific characteristics, often for gardening reasons. Important cultivars of Crocus vernus are the Jeanne D'Arc, Queen of Blues, and the Silver Coral.

Posted on April 16, 2019 12:32 PM by lilye828