A Shapely Beauty

Crocus sieberi subspecies sublimis

The crocus flower has subtle variations in shape between the different species. In fact each flower also changes shape as it ages (just like us!) At each opening of the flower new cells grow where the petals bend, gradually changing the shape. These flowers are newly opened, I think they look their best when fresh (again, just like ....)

A couple of days ago I showed Crocus sieberi 'Bowles White' and promised some more Crocus sieberi. Crocus sieberi subspecies sublimis is a mountain plant from mainland Greece. This form is quite pale in colour, others are a deeper lilac purple. Quite easy to grow and closely related to plants like 'Violet Queen' and 'Firefly' which can be bought cheaply at garden centres and make good garden plants.