Spring Crocus is a
non-native
perennial plant of the UK, typically found growing in grassland and roadsides, to a mature height of up to 15cm.
Spring Crocus, also known as 'Dutch Crocus', is a native of Central and Southern Europe, and was introduced into the UK before the seventeenth century. It features: pale or intense purple petals, with darker veined markings from the base; prominent bright orange anthers and style; a purple flower tube; and a white central stripe to its leaves. Spring Crocus has traditionally been cultivated to provide a saffron substitute.
Botanic classification and naming: Spring Crocus is a member of the Iris (Iridaceae) family. The genus name
'Crocus' identifies the plant as a Crocus, a plant in the Iris family which grows from corms and its species name 'vernus' means 'Spring plant'.
Benefits: An early food source for bees and other insects.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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