Crocus tommasinianus
Crocus tommasinianus
One of the earliest and most reliable crocuses for UK gardens, commonly known as Tommy crocus. Slender buds open to reveal pale silvery-lilac flowers from late January. Naturalises freely in grass, borders, and under deciduous trees. Self-seeds prolifically to form large colonies within a few years.
Where to plant
Best aspect
Border position
When to plant and expect flowers
Plant
Flowers
How to grow crocus tommasinianus
Plant corms 5-8cm deep in autumn. Thrives in any well-drained soil including clay. Best planted in large groups of 50+ for maximum impact. Naturalises freely in grass and under trees. Squirrel resistant unlike Dutch crocuses.
Soil requirements
Soil type
loam, sand, chalk, clay
Moisture
well drained
pH
neutral, alkaline
Aftercare
Allow foliage to die back naturally. Do not mow naturalised areas until leaves have yellowed, usually by mid-April.
Propagation
- Offsets
- Self-seeding
Wildlife value
Toxicity
This bulb is not known to be toxic to pets or people.
Common problems
- Mice eating corms
- Birds pecking flowers
- Crocus rot in waterlogged soil
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