The Plant Guide

Browse the Full Plant Guide

Dutch crocus

Crocus vernus

KROW-kus VER-nus Audio

Dutch crocus is one of the hardiest, if not the hardiest, crocus species readily available to home gardeners. A true harbinger of spring, it can be planted in borders, rock gardens, and even lawns. After flowering, the foliage must be left intact until it withers, which may cause lawn-mower anxiety in some gardeners. Often sold as "mixed crocus," cultivars of this species are typically white, lilac, or purple and white striped.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsVery early blooming; naturalizes in lawn.

CareProvide full sun to light shade and average, well-drained soil. In fall, plant corms four inches deep in groups of six or more. Lift and separate them after four or five years, discarding the mother corm.

PropagationDivide every four or five years.

ProblemsNothing serious, but squirrels and mice may eat the corms.

  • Genus : Crocus
  • Zones : 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
  • Plant Type : Bulbs
  • Uses : Containers
  • Bloom Time : Early Spring, Spring
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
  • Plant Width : Under 6 inches
  • Plant Height : Under 6 inches
  • Flower Color : White

Related Plants

Related Articles

More From the Plant Guide

Winter Interest

Partial Shade

Browse the Full Plant Guide