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Description
Crocus Autumnalis, also known as Autumn Crocus, is a small bulbous plant that belongs to the family Colchicaceae. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region but has been introduced to many parts of the world, including North America. It is a fall-blooming flower that produces beautiful pink to purple flowers that are 2-3 inches wide. The flowers are cup-shaped with six petals and bloom in late September to early November. The leaves of the plant are narrow and grass-like and grow up to 6 inches long. The bulbs of the plant are small and round and are planted in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Colchicaceae |
| Genus | Crocus |
Appearance
Crocus Autumnalis is a small plant that grows up to 6 inches tall. It has narrow, grass-like leaves that grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers of the plant are cup-shaped and come in shades of pink to purple. The flowers are 2-3 inches wide and bloom in late September to early November. The plant produces small, round bulbs that are planted in the fall.
Care Guide
Crocus Autumnalis is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: Crocus Autumnalis needs to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilizer. A small amount of balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring.Soil: Crocus Autumnalis prefers well-draining, sandy soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Crocus Autumnalis is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crocus Autumnalis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to the following:Gray Mold: This fungal disease causes grayish-brown spots on the leaves and flowers of the plant. It can be prevented by removing infected plant material and improving air circulation.Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Crocus Autumnalis is native to the Mediterranean region, but it has been introduced to many parts of the world, including North America. It grows best in well-draining, sandy soil and thrives in full sun to partial shade. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Questions and Answers
Q: When should I plant Crocus Autumnalis bulbs?
A: The bulbs should be planted in the fall, ideally in September or October.Q: How often should I water Crocus Autumnalis?
A: This plant should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.Q: Does Crocus Autumnalis require fertilizer?
A: This plant does not require much fertilizer. A small amount of balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring.Q: Can I grow Crocus Autumnalis in a container?
A: Yes, Crocus Autumnalis can be grown in a container. Make sure the container has drainage holes and use well-draining soil.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Crocus Autumnalis:- Crocus Vernus- Crocus Sativus- Colchicum Autumnale- Gladiolus Byzantinus
References
– “Crocus Autumnalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278926&isprofile=0&basic=crocus%20autumnalis (accessed October 17, 2021).- “Crocus Autumnalis.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/17594/crocus-autumnalis/details (accessed October 17, 2021).- “Colchicum Autumnale.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/27999/colchicum-autumnale/details (accessed October 17, 2021).
