Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Iridaceae

Genus:

Crocus

Species:

Crocus sativus

USDA Symbol:

CRSA15

Growth Characteristics

Height:

15 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

oct,nov

Bloom Colors:

purple, violet

Garden & Ecology Notes

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

fertile, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

6.0 - 8.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to Mediterranean climates with hot, dry summers

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Warm then cold/moist stratification (double dormancy) — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

30–90 days

Notes:

Seeds require warm stratification (20°C) for 4-8 weeks followed by cold stratification (4°C) for 8-12 weeks to break dormancy.