Crocus speciosus - Autumn Flowering

One of the most beautiful autumn-flowering bulbs, Crocus speciosus produces elegant goblet-shaped flowers in rich lilac-blue shades just when most of the garden is beginning to wind down for the year.

The large, silky blooms appear in autumn before or alongside the narrow grassy foliage, bringing welcome colour to borders, lawns, rock gardens and containers. Each flower is delicately veined with deeper purple tones and highlighted by striking orange stamens, creating a display that shines in the low autumn sunlight.

Native to the mountains and woodland edges of Turkey, the Caucasus and parts of the Middle East, Crocus speciosus has been cultivated in gardens since the 19th century and remains one of the finest autumn crocuses available. Over time, the corms multiply naturally to form increasingly impressive drifts, creating a carpet of colour when little else is flowering.

Easy to grow and highly attractive to late pollinating insects, this elegant species is perfect for naturalising in grass, planting beneath deciduous trees, or weaving through borders where its autumn flowers can be enjoyed up close.

A superb bulb for extending the gardening season well beyond summer.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Crocus speciosus corms in late summer to early autumn, ideally between August and September, for flowering later the same year.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in full sun or partial shade with well-drained soil. Crocus speciosus is ideal for borders, rock gardens, lawns, woodland edges and containers.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant corms approximately 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space corms about 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve heavy soils with grit or sharp sand to ensure good drainage and prevent winter wet.

Watering:
Water after planting to settle the soil. Once established, Crocus speciosus requires very little additional watering except during prolonged dry periods.

Aftercare Tips:

• Allow foliage to die back naturally in spring.
• Avoid mowing grass until foliage has yellowed if planted in lawns.
• Leave clumps undisturbed to allow natural multiplication.

Top Tip:
Plant in generous groups beneath deciduous trees or among low-growing perennials where the autumn flowers can create a spectacular late-season display.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
September – November (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
4–6" (10–15cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun or partial shade

Hardy Perennial