Crocus tommasinianus Ruby Giant was introduced in 1956, and though neither Ruby or red, nor the largest crocus flower, it is rich reddish purple with yellow-orange anthers. It will naturalise readily, although it is sterile. C tommasinianus was named for M.G.S. de Tommasini, (1794-1879) magistrate and botanist at Trieste. It is native to Southern Hungary, NW Bulgaria and Bosnia-Herzegovina, where it is found in deciduous woods. It seeds easily, and will naturalise readily. The commercial stock was initially raised by Mr Roozen-Kramer of Bennebroek, Holland. The flowers of the species may not come true from seed if other tommasinianus varieties are in the vicinity but they will still be a pleasure, and the cormlets do come true. Even when closed the sturdy stems hold the flower heads up above their leaves. It will flower early in spring, and is attractive to insects, so long as they have become active. While needing a well-drained position and loving the sun, it is happy in more shade than most crocuses. Somewhat difficult to plant in grass due to its small size they will nevertheless seed freely into late mown grass. Its capacity for spreading means it may not be a wise choice for a rock garden, but otherwise it will establish itself wherever it is put.
Planting instructions
Plant 7cm (3”) deep and in small groups of 3/5 only 2” apart, repeated at intervals in lighter soil or thin grass, in some shade. Do not mow the grass too tight or too early. Silvery lilac and pink colours in February/ March 3” tall.
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