Blooming well before the fat Dutch Crocus (Crocus vernus), Crocus chrysanthus (Snow Crocus) pokes through the bare earth or snow to cheer gardeners and capture their heart. Native from Greece to Bulgaria and Turkey, this crocus produces smaller flowers than those of the familiar 'Dutch crocuses' but in greater numbers.

• This species is also noteworthy for its unusual color blends, not found in the larger hybrids. Many cultivars have bicolored petals and a striking yellow center. They make the most dramatic appearance when planted in clumps of one color and bloom so profusely and brilliantly that even small clusters can be seen from a distance.
• Blooming occurs from late winter to early spring. The calyx-shaped flowers open only when the sun shines or when there is a lot of light; they close up in rainy weather and at night. Did you know that crocus bulbs remaining in the ground will always bloom a bit earlier than the ones planted the previous year?
• Aside from the species, some varieties emit a lovely fragrance
• Growing up to 3-4 inches tall (7-10 cm), Snow crocuses naturalize easily and will come back year after year!
• Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun or light shade.
• Stunning in beds, lawns, under trees, rock gardens, in front of shrubs, along walkways. Spectacular in large sweeping drifts. For optimal effect, 100 to 150 corms should be planted. If used in lawns, however, the grass may not be mowed until six weeks after the crocuses have bloomed. If mowed earlier than this, the newly forming cormlets (developing on top of the mother corm) will not become large enough to flower next year.
• To be planted in fall.