Autumn Crocus
crocus speciosus
Also known as: ["Autumn Crocus","Saffron Crocus"]
Overview
A perennial flowering plant native to Western Asia, known for its vibrant blue flowers that bloom in autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","autumn bloomer"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Iridaceae |
| Genus: | Crocus |
| Botanical Name: | Crocus speciosus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or naturalized in grassy areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy loam with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering each year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate pots for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); tolerates frost but prefers mild winters.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from late frosts; keep away from heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and early summer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop fertilizing after flowering.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs; seed propagation is possible but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Dig up bulbs after foliage dies back.
- Separate offsets.
- Replant at the correct depth.
Best Time: After flowering in spring or during dormancy in summer.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions for seeds; dry, cool conditions for bulb storage.
Medium
Well-drained bulb mix or sandy loam.
Hormone
Not necessary for bulb division; optional for seeds.
Timeline
Bulbs establish in 1–2 seasons; seeds may take 2–3 years to flower.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, clean pots.
Quick Tips
Replant bulbs immediately after division; ensure proper spacing; label new plantings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; avoid cutting foliage until it yellows and dies back.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove spent flower stalks to encourage bulb development.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; remove only spent flowers; leave foliage intact until it dies naturally.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Not applicable; bulbs are divided rather than repotted.
Pot Size
Not applicable.
Method
Not applicable.
Suggestions
Not typically repotted; bulbs are best left undisturbed for several years.
Checklist
Not applicable.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during dormancy (summer); increase frequency in fall as growth resumes; reduce again after flowering in spring.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf damage or dormancy in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; bulbs may rot if soil is waterlogged in cold.
Solution: Ensure well-drained soil; mulch bulbs in winter; protect from extreme cold with frost cloth.
Hot Stress
Bulbs may wither or fail to flower; foliage may scorch in intense heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; water deeply during dry spells; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply in early spring as growth begins.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Crocus speciosus, particularly the bulbs, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic toxicity. The flowers may also elicit mild to moderate symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe bulbs of Crocus speciosus are highly toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can induce severe gastrointestinal upset and, in rare cases, more systemic effects such as cardiac issues. The flowers are less toxic but can still cause mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCrocus speciosus contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The bulbs are particularly concentrated in these compounds, while the flowers are less potent but still capable of causing irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does Crocus speciosus bloom?
A: It blooms in autumn, typically from September to November.
Q: Is Crocus speciosus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How should I care for Crocus speciosus?
A: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade; water moderately during active growth and allow bulbs to dry out in summer.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Iridaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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