Contents
Description
Crocus Speciosus, commonly known as the Large Autumn Crocus, is a perennial species of flowering plant in the Iris family. It is native to the eastern Mediterranean, including Turkey, Iraq, and Iran. The plant grows from corms, producing beautiful purple-blue flowers with a white center. The flowers bloom in the fall, typically in October or November, and can last up to a month.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Crocus |
Appearance
The Crocus Speciosus plant grows to be about 4-8 inches tall, with narrow green leaves that emerge from the ground in the spring. The flowers are large, typically 2-3 inches in diameter, with six petals that are a beautiful shade of purple-blue. The center of the flower is white, with yellow stamens that protrude out. The flowers are cup-shaped, and the petals are slightly ruffled around the edges.
Care Guide
Crocus Speciosus is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but there are a few things to keep in mind when caring for it:
- Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering once the foliage dies back in the summer.
- Fertilization: The plant doesn’t require much fertilization, but you can add a balanced fertilizer in the spring when the leaves emerge.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Add compost or other organic material to the soil to improve drainage and fertility.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Crocus Speciosus is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crocus Speciosus is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases, but there are a few things to watch out for:
- Squirrels: Squirrels love to dig up crocus corms and eat them. To prevent this, cover the planting area with wire mesh or plant the corms in containers.
- Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease can cause the flowers to turn brown and mushy. To prevent this, avoid planting the corms in areas with poor air circulation and make sure the soil is well-draining.
- Thrips: These tiny insects can damage the flowers by feeding on them. To prevent this, apply an insecticidal soap or oil spray to the plant.
Habitat
Crocus Speciosus is native to the eastern Mediterranean, including Turkey, Iraq, and Iran. It grows in rocky, well-draining soils in areas with hot summers and cold winters.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I plant Crocus Speciosus?
A: Plant the corms in the fall, about 4-6 weeks before the first frost date in your area.
Q: Can I grow Crocus Speciosus in containers?
A: Yes, Crocus Speciosus can be grown in containers. Plant the corms in well-draining soil and make sure the container has drainage holes.
Q: How often should I water Crocus Speciosus?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering once the foliage dies back in the summer.
Q: How long do the flowers of Crocus Speciosus last?
A: The flowers can last up to a month.
Related Plants
- Crocus Sativus
- Crocus Vernus
- Crocus Chrysanthus
References
- “Crocus Speciosus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b712.
- “Crocus Speciosus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/2914/Crocus-speciosus/Details.
- “Crocus Speciosus.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/195704/.
