Crocus speciosus

The autumn crocus that everyone* can grow!

Crocus speciosus, native to Turkey, is widely and cheaply available. The flowers come before the leaves and are often beautifully veined. It does tend to flop due to lower light levels than it would receive in the wild but planted in full sun, perhaps in grass, it can make a vibrant splash of colour in the autumn garden.

This one is not mine, it is part of roadside planting near where I work. Fallen leaves from nearby trees paint the perfect backcloth.


*I don't know if this is available to antipodean gardeners. The laws on non-native plants are tough for you.