Called Woodland Crocus and native to Bulgaria and Dalmatia, this species is the crocus most tolerant of moisture during the dormant period.
3–4" tall. Very Early Spring blooms, Z3-8, 5cm/up bulbs.
Also called Golden Crocus, this is the best-known small crocus species. Bears up to 4 fragrant flowers per corm, with rounded petals. Native to Greece, Turkey and the Balkans.
Spring Crocus provide a burst of color in early spring as well as food for bees. Once established, crocus can spread by “cormlets” and seed in well-drained areas. Foliage of low-growing varieties fades before the grass needs mowing.
One of the most popular genera, they are welcome precursors of spring—colorful, long-lived, and easy to grow. Their waxy coat allows them to bloom even through a late snow. Flowers open wide in bright sun and close up at night and on grey days.
In his award-winning book The Holistic Orchard, Michael Phillips recommends planting crocus in the orchard to help attract and retain native orchard mason bees. Crocus provide a pollen source before the fruit trees bloom.