Contents
Description
Crocus Angustifolius, also known as the Cloth of Gold crocus, is a perennial flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region. It belongs to the family Iridaceae and is a popular ornamental plant due to its vibrant golden-yellow flowers that bloom in late winter and early spring. The name “crocus” comes from the Greek word krokos, which means “saffron,” as the plant’s stigmas are used to make this valuable spice.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Crocus |
Appearance
Crocus Angustifolius grows up to 15 cm tall and has narrow, grass-like leaves that are about 20 cm long. The flowers are large and cup-shaped, measuring up to 10 cm in diameter, and have six golden-yellow petals with orange stigmas. The plant blooms in late winter and early spring, usually in February and March, and can produce up to three flowers per corm.
Care Guide
For optimal growth and blooms, Crocus Angustifolius requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun to partial shade and needs to be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the fall and spring, and avoid planting it in areas that are prone to waterlogging. Crocus Angustifolius is hardy to USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crocus Angustifolius is generally not prone to major pest or disease problems. However, it can be susceptible to bulb mites, which can cause distorted growth and stunted flowers. To prevent bulb mites, avoid planting the bulbs too deeply and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as botrytis and fusarium, which can cause rotting of the bulbs and flowers. To prevent fungal diseases, plant the bulbs in well-drained soil and avoid overcrowding.
Habitat
Crocus Angustifolius is native to the rocky hillsides and meadows of the Mediterranean region, particularly in Greece, Turkey, and the Balkans. It thrives in dry, sunny locations and can grow in a variety of soil types, from sandy to clayey. The plant is often found in naturalized settings, such as meadows and woodlands, and is also commonly grown in gardens and parks as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I plant Crocus Angustifolius bulbs?
A: Plant the bulbs in the fall, about 2-3 inches deep and 3-4 inches apart.
Q: How long do the flowers last?
A: The flowers usually last for 2-3 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.
Q: Can I grow Crocus Angustifolius in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Crocus Angustifolius in a container as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is well-drained.
Q: Is Crocus Angustifolius deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Crocus Angustifolius is deer-resistant as the plant’s bulbs and leaves are unpalatable to deer.
Related Plants
- Crocus Vernus
- Crocus Sativus
- Crocus Sieberi
- Crocus Chrysanthus
References
- “Crocus angustifolius” Kew Science, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed September 12, 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:438766-1
- “Crocus angustifolius” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 12, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285697&isprofile=0&basic=crocus
- “Crocus angustifolius” Plant Finder, Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 12, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/7570/Crocus-angustifolius/Details
