Crocus Flowers

Crocus are perennials that grow from corms.  They are in the genus crocus, and in the family Iridaceae. There is about eighty different species of crocus plants in the group, and they are native to Europe and Asia.  Within the family there is about thirty types that are cultivated.

The crocus corms, sometimes referred to as flower bulbs, have cup shaped flower blooms that are available in many colors.  The colors include shades from red to pink, blue to purple, orange to yellow, pink to red, and white.  The flowers have three stamens, which are often bright shades of orange to yellow.  Both the giant crocus and the regular crocus are about four to six inches tall. The giant-sized crocuses have larger flower blooms than the regular size.  The leaves of crocus bulbs are grass like, and they usually have a white stripe that goes up its length. 

Spring blooming crocus flowers will usually bloom between February and April. Often they appear before the last snowfall of the season.  Fall blooming crocus plants usually appear between September and October.  Crocus are often planted in rock garden and borders. Since the early spring bloomers arrive before grass starts to grow, they can also be used for naturalizing flowers.

One species that blooms in the autumn, the Crocus sativus, produces the spice saffron in it’s dried stigmas.  The spice dates back as far as the seventh century.  Crocuses have also been used in food coloring, medicines, fragrances, and dyes. 

Please Note: 

The colchicum autumnale blooms in autumn and closely resembles the crocus flowers.  They are poisonous with deadly side effects, and should not be eaten. 

Burgess Seed & Plant Co.

Nature Hills Nursery