About
Crocus is one of the earliest spring wildflowers to bloom. It usually blooms before anything else and seems to appear right out of the ground due to its short thin leaves which are difficult to spot. The flowers are striking and come in many colors and only open up on sunny days. After the blooming period is over, they completely die back to their corm.
Crocus is native to Europe, North Africa, China, and the Middle East, however it has been cultivated as a garden flower and can be found in the cooler climates of the eastern and northwestern US.
Bloom Window
The bloom window for Crocus is very narrow in late February through early March. The flowers only stay for a couple days and the leaves for a little longer. There are some autumn blooming species as well.
Taxonomy
- Family Iridaceae (Iris)
- Genus Crocus
- Species Crocus spp. (Crocus)
Where to Find It
Home and Horticultural gardens in the upper two thirds of the eastern US, northwestern US, as well as Europe, North Africa, Middle East, and China. It may also be found in the edges of woods or open areas, where homesteads once stood. Inniswood Metro Gardens in Westerville, Ohio is one of the parks I frequent to monitor this flower as an indicator species of others to come.
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