Tecophilaea

The fabled Chilean Crocus- once thought to be extinct in its native habitats but subsequently identified at a site near Santiago. They are from high altitude, so one would expect them to be cold tolerant, but where they come from is relatively dry, and our winters are really too wet for them. So, if possible, grow them under some protection (particularly from rain) and you’ll be amazed by the depth of colour in the flowers. Their blue is like the dazzling displays produced by some exotic butterflies.