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Yellow Crocus

Crocus x luteus

Crocus x luteus Crocus x luteus
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Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Asparagales
Family:
Iridaceae (Iris)
Also in this family:
American Blue-eyed Grass, Aunt Eliza, Autumn Crocus, Bearded Iris, Blue-eyed Grass, Early Crocus, Eastern Gladiolus, Giant Montbretia, Montbretia, Pale Yellow-eyed Grass, Potts Montbretia, Purple Iris, Sand Crocus, Siberian Iris, Snakeshead Iris, Snow Crocus, Spanish Iris, Spring Crocus, Stinking Iris, Turkish Iris, Veined Autumn Crocus, Wild Gladiolus, Yellow Flag Iris, Yellow-eyed Grass
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
15 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Gardens, meadows, parks, scrub, woodland.

Flower:
֍
Yellow, 6 petals
 
The flowers of the Yellow Crocus have vibrant golden-yellow petals with a central orange stigma. These flowers typically emerge in early spring, adding a splash of colour to gardens and landscapes. The slender, grass-like leaves surround the base of the flower stem, creating a delicate and charming appearance. The Yellow Crocus is known for its cheerful and early bloom, signaling the arrival of spring in the UK.
Fruit:
Crocuses are primarily cultivated for their ornamental flowers rather than for fruit-bearing purposes. The plant reproduces through corms (underground storage organs) rather than fruits. Therefore, there is no specific fruit associated with the Yellow Crocus. The main attraction is the bright yellow flowers that emerge in early spring.
Leaves:
The leaves of the Yellow Crocus are slender and grass-like in appearance. These green leaves emerge from the base of the plant and surround the flower stem. The foliage is typically narrow and has a smooth texture, contributing to the overall elegance of the plant. The leaves play a role in photosynthesis, helping the plant produce energy for growth and flowering. In the case of the Yellow Crocus, the leaves add a complementary touch to the vibrant yellow flowers that bloom in early spring.
Aroma:
The Yellow Crocus is not generally known for having a distinctive fragrance. Unlike some other flowering plants, such as roses or lilies, crocuses are often grown for their visual appeal rather than their scent. The primary attraction of the Yellow Crocus lies in its bright and cheerful golden-yellow flowers, which emerge in early spring, signaling the end of winter. While the plant may lack a notable fragrance, its vibrant blooms contribute to the overall charm of gardens and landscapes.
Other Names:
Dutch Crocus, Spring Crocus, Star Crocus.
Frequency (UK):
Abundant  

Other Information

Summary

Crocus x luteus, also known as the star crocus or hybrid crocus, is a hybrid plant that is created by crossing Crocus vernus with Crocus chrysanthus. It is a popular garden plant that is prized for its early blooming flowers and ease of care. The flowers have six tepals (petals) that are typically purple, blue, or white in color, and have a yellow throat. The plant has slender, grass-like leaves that emerge after the flowers have bloomed. It is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to grow in a variety of soil types, and can thrive in full sun or partial shade. It is a good choice for rock gardens, borders, and naturalized areas.

Blog

Dutch Crocus: The Beauty of Spring in Your Garden

Spring is a time of rejuvenation, new beginnings, and colorful blooms. And what better way to welcome the season than with the stunning beauty of Dutch Crocus, also known as Crocus x luteus. This variety of crocus is native to the Netherlands, and is widely popular for its bright, star-like flowers and sweet fragrance.

The Dutch Crocus is a hybrid species that is created by crossing two different crocus species, Crocus chrysanthus and Crocus vernus. This combination has resulted in a plant that is both hardy and vibrant, with a wide range of colors to choose from, including white, yellow, purple, and blue. The blooms of the Dutch Crocus are usually 2-3 cm in diameter and are composed of six petals that are tightly packed together to form a star-like shape. The delicate, yet striking flowers of the Dutch Crocus are sure to brighten up any garden, and will be a source of joy for years to come.

One of the best things about Dutch Crocus is their ease of care. These hardy plants are able to tolerate cold temperatures and are resistant to most pests and diseases. They are also low maintenance and require very little attention, making them a great choice for gardeners of all levels of experience. In addition, the Dutch Crocus is easy to plant and propagate, and will quickly multiply, making it a cost-effective way to add color to your garden.

Dutch Crocus is best planted in the fall, about 4-6 weeks before the first frost. This gives the bulbs time to settle into the soil and establish a strong root system before the winter cold sets in. The bulbs should be planted in well-drained soil, at a depth of about 7 cm, and spaced about 10 cm apart. After planting, simply water the bulbs and wait for the magic of spring.

The Dutch Crocus is a wonderful addition to any garden, and is the perfect way to welcome the beauty of spring. With its bright colors, sweet fragrance, and ease of care, this variety of crocus is sure to become a favorite in your garden for years to come. So why not add a touch of the Netherlands to your garden this spring and enjoy the beauty of the Dutch Crocus.

Additionally, Dutch Crocus is not only a beautiful plant but also an important food source for many species of pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The nectar of the Dutch Crocus is a rich source of energy for these creatures, and provides a much-needed food source in early spring when other food sources are scarce. By planting Dutch Crocus in your garden, you are not only adding beauty to your outdoor space, but you are also helping to support the health of local pollinator populations.

Another great feature of the Dutch Crocus is its versatility. These plants can be grown in a variety of different soil types and lighting conditions, making them a great choice for gardens of all sizes and styles. Whether you are looking to create a naturalistic woodland garden or a more structured formal garden, the Dutch Crocus will fit right in. And, because the bulbs of the Dutch Crocus are small, they can be planted in areas where other plants may not thrive, such as rock gardens or crevices in stone walls.

If you are looking for a way to add a touch of spring to your garden, consider planting Dutch Crocus. With its bright colors, sweet fragrance, and ease of care, this variety of crocus is sure to become a favorite in your garden for years to come. So why wait? Get started today and experience the beauty of Dutch Crocus in your own garden.

Dutch Crocus is a must-have plant for any garden enthusiast. It is not only beautiful, but also supports the health of pollinator populations and is versatile enough to be grown in a variety of different soil types and lighting conditions. So why not add a touch of the Netherlands to your garden in spring and enjoy the beauty of Dutch Crocus.

In addition to its beauty and versatility, the Dutch Crocus is also a symbol of hope and renewal. The appearance of these delicate flowers in the early spring signals the end of winter and the arrival of warmer weather. Their bright colors and sweet fragrance bring a sense of joy and optimism to any garden, and are a reminder that no matter how long and harsh the winter may be, spring will always come again.

The Dutch Crocus is also a great choice for cut flower arrangements. The long stems of the Dutch Crocus make them perfect for use in bouquets and centerpieces, and their sweet fragrance will fill your home with the scent of spring. These flowers are also long-lasting, so you can enjoy their beauty for several days after cutting.

In terms of design, Dutch Crocus can be used in a variety of different ways in the garden. They are often planted in large groups to create a striking display of color, or can be used as accent plants in combination with other spring-blooming bulbs, such as tulips or daffodils. They can also be planted along walkways or in rock gardens, adding a touch of beauty and interest to these areas.

In conclusion, the Dutch Crocus is a true gem in the world of gardening. Its beauty, versatility, and symbolism make it a must-have plant for any garden enthusiast. So why not add a touch of spring to your garden this year and experience the beauty and joy of the Dutch Crocus.

40 Facts About the Yellow Crocus

Here are 40 facts about the Yellow Crocus (Crocus x luteus):

  1. The Yellow Crocus is a hybrid species, denoted by the "x" in its scientific name, Crocus x luteus.
  2. It belongs to the family Iridaceae.
  3. The plant is commonly referred to as "Yellow Crocus" due to the color of its flowers.
  4. Crocus x luteus is known for its early spring bloom, often appearing as one of the first flowers of the season.
  5. The vibrant yellow flowers add a splash of color to gardens and landscapes.
  6. The plant is native to Europe and has been cultivated for centuries.
  7. It typically grows from corms, which are underground storage organs.
  8. The leaves are grass-like and emerge from the base of the plant.
  9. The flowers have six petals arranged in a cup shape.
  10. The central stigma of the flower is often orange.
  11. Yellow Crocus is not typically grown for its fragrance.
  12. The plant is more valued for its ornamental qualities.
  13. It is a hardy perennial that can naturalize and multiply over time.
  14. Crocus flowers close at night and in cloudy weather.
  15. The plant is adaptable to various soil types but prefers well-drained soil.
  16. Yellow Crocus can be grown in gardens, lawns, or containers.
  17. It is deer-resistant, making it a suitable choice for areas with deer populations.
  18. Crocus x luteus can be used in rock gardens and borders.
  19. The corms should be planted in the autumn for spring blooms.
  20. The plant is relatively low-maintenance.
  21. Crocus flowers are pollinated by insects, particularly bees.
  22. It is a source of early-season nectar for pollinators.
  23. The flowers are sterile and do not produce viable seeds.
  24. Propagation is primarily through corm division.
  25. Yellow Crocus is non-toxic to humans, but ingestion is not recommended.
  26. Crocus blooms are often associated with the celebration of spring festivals.
  27. The plant has been cultivated for its medicinal properties in traditional herbal medicine.
  28. It symbolizes cheerfulness and new beginnings.
  29. The word "crocus" is derived from the Greek krokos, referring to both the plant and its saffron-producing cousin.
  30. Saffron, a valuable spice, is obtained from the Crocus sativus species, not Crocus x luteus.
  31. Crocus flowers can tolerate cold temperatures and even bloom through light snow.
  32. The plant is known to attract early-season butterflies.
  33. Yellow Crocus can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-8.
  34. It is susceptible to certain pests, including aphids and thrips.
  35. Crocus bulbs should be planted at a depth of 3-4 inches.
  36. The plant requires full to partial sunlight for optimal growth.
  37. Yellow Crocus can be used as a companion plant with other early spring bloomers.
  38. The plant's foliage dies back after flowering, entering a period of dormancy.
  39. Crocus bulbs should be lifted and divided every few years to maintain vigor.
  40. While primarily grown for aesthetic purposes, Yellow Crocus contributes to the ecological balance by supporting pollinators in early spring.

Video

Yellow crocuses filmed around Lancashire in February and March 2023, and February 2024.

 

Music credits
Dark Walk by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100468
Artist: http://incompetech.com/

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Distribution Map

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