autumn crocus
Colchicum byzantinum 'Album'
Overview
The autumn crocus (Colchicum byzantinum 'Album') is an amazing plant which can brighten up any garden. It has the beautiful white blooms which offer a stunning appearance during the autumn season. The foliage is also quite attractive and makes a great backdrop for other plants, providing an evergreen look all year round. With its enhanced hardiness, it can tolerate harsh temperatures and survive even in the coldest places. Once in bloom, it will add a magnificent show of white blooms that will bring an air of freshness to any landscape. A wonderful addition to any garden.
Care Guide
Watering
Generally, water the autumn crocus when the top 1-2 inches of soil dries out. During the summer months, water the plant once every 7-10 days, and, in winter, water every 10-14 days. Do not allow the soil to become overly saturated as this could cause the roots to rot. Additionally, the plant should never be allowed to dry out completely.
Light
Autumn crocus (Colchicum byzantinumn 'Album') requires a good amount of sunlight to thrive. It should be planted in a sunny spot that receives at least 4 hours of sunlight a day, preferably in the morning or early afternoon. Additionally, as a Mediterranean species, autumn crocus also prefers some dry, hot spells in the summer, so it should be kept in a spot that is adequately exposed to the sun.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 4–8.
Pruning
When pruning an autumn crocus, it is best to do so right after its blooms have faded. Simply cut off its foliage at the base to remove spent blooms and make room for healthy and vigorous next year's growth. This should be done in late spring or early summer and no more than 1/3 of the foliage should be removed at any time.
Propagation
Division, Seed Propagation, Offsets
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