Crocuses (Autumn flowering)

Autumn flowering crocuses give a boost to the fading autumn garden. When colours leach from the cooling earth, autumn crocuses provide that special something. Within this category, we have included colchicums as a similar flower but are actually from a different family. 

Their colours range from the pure white of the Colchicum Autumnale Album through to the soft lilac of the Colchicum Speciosum and deep purple of the Colchicum The Giant.

Autumn Flowering Crocuses are a delightful addition to any garden, offering a burst of colour when most other flowers have finished blooming. Here’s why you should consider adding these charming crocuses to your garden:

Late Season Beauty: Autumn Flowering Crocuses bring vibrant hues to your garden during the autumn months, a time when many other plants are past their prime. Their bright flowers can create a stunning display and extend the flowering season in your garden.

Ease of Planting: These crocuses are easy to plant and require minimal effort to grow. Simply plant the corms in late summer or early autumn, and they will reward you with beautiful blooms within weeks. They are ideal for novice gardeners and those looking to add quick, effortless colour to their garden.

Diverse Colour Palette: Available in a range of colours including purples, pinks, and whites, Autumn Flowering Crocuses can complement any garden design. Their vibrant petals can create striking contrasts or blend seamlessly with existing autumn foliage.

Adaptability: Autumn Flowering Crocuses are versatile and can thrive in various garden settings, including borders, rock gardens, and under trees. They also do well in pots and containers, making them perfect for small spaces or patio displays.

Low Maintenance: Once planted, Autumn Flowering Crocuses require little care. They are drought-tolerant and can thrive in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight. This makes them an excellent choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants that still offer a high impact.

Wildlife Friendly: These crocuses are a valuable food source for pollinators such as bees, providing nectar and pollen late in the season when other sources are scarce. Planting Autumn Flowering Crocuses can help support local wildlife and promote a healthy garden ecosystem.

Autumn Harvest: For the ardent cook in the house growing saffron, gathered from the stamen of the crocus sativis is a truly satisfying autumn harvest. Care should be taken when handling colchicum as contact with skin can cause some irritation. The autumn crocus bulbs themselves are toxic and should not be eaten.

By choosing Autumn Flowering Crocuses, you can enjoy their vibrant blooms and numerous benefits, enhancing your garden's beauty and ecological health during the autumn months.

Stephen Teeuw is the 3rd generation of his family to work in the flower bulb industry; he grows hundreds of varieties of new bulbs each year. Here are the autumn flowering crocus bulbs that he would recommend you consider for your garden:

Speciosus Albus: There is a crisp point on the end of these crocus petals and a slight kink in the flower which makes for an exquisite autumn performance.

Colchicum Waterlily: I think this is such a brilliant flower for this time of year. Full of colour and beautiful double purple flowers.

Crocus Speciosus: For me, these are the most successful autumn flowering crocus. A full-bodied flower of a silvery purple colour.

When to Plant: Autumn Flowering Crocuses should be planted in late summer or early September to ensure they bloom from September onwards. Although their blooms are short-lived, typically lasting two to three weeks, these crocuses will lie dormant until spring when their leaves appear. 

Where to Plant: Due to their delicate flowers, it's essential to plant Autumn Flowering Crocuses in protected areas. Consider planting them underneath low-lying plants or even on your lawn to shield them from harsh weather. These crocuses are versatile and can thrive in a variety of conditions, from full sun to partial shade, making them suitable for many garden settings.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Autumn Flowering Crocuses are well-placed to thrive and bring vibrant colour to your garden during the autumn months.

• We are a friendly, family-run business with more than 60 years of experience
• We offer bulk prices and free delivery for orders over £50
• We supply flower bulbs in quantities large and small, for all types of gardeners from the cottage potterer to the professional landscaper 
• With a range of colours and varieties available, you'll be spoilt for choice.

To extend the blooming period, plant crocus bulbs at different times within the recommended planting window (late summer to early September). Additionally, ensure they are planted in well-drained soil and receive adequate sunlight. 

Yes, Autumn Flowering Crocuses are generally deer and rodent resistant due to their toxic properties. However, it’s still a good idea to protect them from digging animals by using deterrents like garden mesh or natural repellents.

Yes, Autumn Flowering Crocuses can be forced to bloom indoors. Plant the bulbs in pots with well-drained soil and place them in a cool, dark place for a few weeks to simulate winter conditions. Then, move them to a sunny spot indoors to encourage blooming.

After blooming, allow the foliage to die back naturally. This helps the bulbs store energy for the next season. Avoid cutting the leaves until they are completely yellow. You can also apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support bulb health.

Yes, Autumn Flowering Crocuses can be naturalised on your lawn. Plant the bulbs randomly for a natural look. Mow the lawn normally until the crocuses start to sprout in autumn. Once they appear, avoid mowing the area until the foliage has died back naturally in spring.

If you're having trouble choosing from our gorgeous selection of Autumn Flowering Crocuses, our autumn planting collection provides a diverse range at great value. Explore our extensive selection of crocus bulbs today and watch your garden come to life with vibrant, long-lasting blooms.

For the best results, it’s essential to plant your autumn flowering crocus under optimal conditions. For tips on enhancing the beauty of your crocuses, check out our detailed crocus planting guide.

Please contact us if you have any questions. We’re here to assist with recommendations for stunning colour combinations, help you determine the right number of bulbs for your space, and address any landscape or trade inquiries you might have.