Crocus chrysanthus Dorothy

Bright, cheerful and wonderfully reliable, Crocus chrysanthus 'Dorothy' produces vibrant golden-yellow flowers with subtle bronze feathering on the outer petals, bringing a welcome burst of sunshine to the late winter and early spring garden.

A long-established favourite among gardeners, 'Dorothy' belongs to the early-flowering Snow Crocus group and is prized for its vigour, rich colouring and excellent naturalising qualities. The goblet-shaped flowers emerge in abundance before many other spring bulbs have awakened, creating dazzling drifts of colour in borders, lawns, rock gardens and containers.

The glowing yellow blooms open wide in sunshine to reveal rich orange stamens that provide an important source of nectar and pollen for early bees and other pollinating insects. Over time, the corms multiply freely, forming increasingly impressive colonies that return year after year with very little attention.

Easy to grow and exceptionally rewarding, Crocus 'Dorothy' is one of the finest yellow crocuses for bringing colour and life to the earliest days of spring.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Crocus corms in autumn, ideally between September and November, before the ground freezes.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in full sun or partial shade with well-drained soil. Crocuses are ideal for borders, rock gardens, containers and naturalising in lawns.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant corms approximately 5–8 cm (2–3 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space corms about 5–8 cm (2–3 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve heavy soils with grit or sharp sand to ensure good drainage.

Watering:
Water after planting to settle the soil. Once established, Crocus corms require very little additional watering.

Aftercare Tips:

• Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
• If planted in grass, avoid mowing until the leaves have yellowed.
• Leave clumps undisturbed to allow natural multiplication.

Top Tip:
Plant alongside blue and white crocuses such as 'Ard Schenk' and 'Blue Pearl' for a vibrant early spring display.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
February – March (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
3–4" (8–10cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun or partial shade

Hardy Perennial