Contents
Description
Crocus Chrysanthus Ard Schenk is a perennial bulbous plant species that belongs to the Iridaceae family. It is native to southern Europe and the Middle East and is widely cultivated in gardens for its early blooming flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Crocus |
Appearance
Crocus Chrysanthus Ard Schenk has narrow, grass-like leaves that emerge from the bulb in the fall. The leaves grow to a height of 5-15 cm and persist through the winter. In early spring, the plant produces 1-3 flowers per bulb. The flowers are cup-shaped and have 6 petals that range in color from pale yellow to bright golden yellow. The blooms are 3-5 cm in diameter, and each flower lasts for about 1-2 weeks.
Care Guide
Water: Crocus Chrysanthus Ard Schenk prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plants regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering in the summer when the bulbs are dormant.
Fertilization: Fertilize the bulbs in the fall with a low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the spring, as this can lead to soft, weak growth.
Soil: Crocus Chrysanthus Ard Schenk prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6 to 7 is ideal.
Sunlight: Crocus Chrysanthus Ard Schenk prefers full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot summers, the plants benefit from afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones: Crocus Chrysanthus Ard Schenk is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crocus Chrysanthus Ard Schenk is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as botrytis and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation around the plants. Squirrels and rodents may also dig up and eat the bulbs.
Habitat
Crocus Chrysanthus Ard Schenk is native to southern Europe and the Middle East. It grows in meadows, rocky slopes, and woodland borders. In cultivation, it is often grown in rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I plant Crocus Chrysanthus Ard Schenk bulbs?
A: Plant the bulbs in the fall, about 4-6 weeks before the ground freezes.
Q: Can I grow Crocus Chrysanthus Ard Schenk in a container?
A: Yes, Crocus Chrysanthus Ard Schenk can be grown in containers. Plant the bulbs in the fall and keep the container in a cool, dark place until the leaves emerge in the spring.
Q: How often should I fertilize Crocus Chrysanthus Ard Schenk?
A: Fertilize the bulbs once a year in the fall with a low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer.
Q: How often should I water Crocus Chrysanthus Ard Schenk?
A: Water the plants regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering in the summer when the bulbs are dormant.
Related Plants
- Crocus vernus
- Crocus sieberi
- Crocus biflorus
- Crocus tommasinianus
References
- “Crocus chrysanthus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287975.
- “Crocus chrysanthus.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/3538/Crocus-chrysanthus/Details.
- “Crocus chrysanthus Ard Schenk.” Plant Finder. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:437725-1.
