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Description
Crocus Sieberi, also known as Sieber’s Crocus, is a beautiful winter-flowering plant that belongs to the family of Iridaceae. It is native to Turkey and can grow up to 10cm in height. The flowers of Crocus Sieberi are pale lilac or blue-violet with a white throat and bloom from January to March. This winter-flowering plant is a great addition to any garden and can be planted in large groups for a stunning visual display.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Crocus |
Appearance
Crocus Sieberi has long, narrow leaves that grow up to 10cm in length. The flowers are pale lilac or blue-violet with a white throat and have a diameter of about 4cm. The petals of Crocus Sieberi are slightly curved and have a satin-like texture. The plant has a corm that is covered with a brown tunic.
Care Guide
Crocus Sieberi requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering during the growing season. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light feeding of a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the fall. Crocus Sieberi is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crocus Sieberi is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rot if planted in poorly-draining soil or if overwatered. Squirrels and other rodents may also dig up the corms, so it is important to protect them with wire mesh.
Habitat
Crocus Sieberi is native to the mountainous regions of Turkey, where it grows in meadows and rocky slopes. It thrives in well-draining soil and prefers a cool, dry climate.
Question and Answer
Q: When should I plant Crocus Sieberi?
A: Crocus Sieberi should be planted in the fall, about 4-6 weeks before the first frost.
Q: Can Crocus Sieberi be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Crocus Sieberi can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the corms.
Q: How often should I water Crocus Sieberi?
A: Crocus Sieberi should be watered regularly during the growing season, but care should be taken not to overwater as this can cause the corms to rot.
Q: Can Crocus Sieberi be grown in hot climates?
A: Crocus Sieberi prefers a cool, dry climate and may not thrive in hot, humid conditions.
Related Plants
- Crocus Sativus
- Crocus Vernus
- Crocus Chrysanthus
- Crocus Tommasinianus
References
- “Crocus sieberi.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b356
- “Crocus sieberi.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/26120/i-Crocus-sieberi-i/Details
- “Crocus sieberi.” PlantFiles. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/67054/
