11 Stunning Crocus Varieties to Brighten Up Your Garden

ByVictoria Arias
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As the snow falls in February, and moose roam around munching on the greenery, it’s easy to yearn for a pop of color in the garden. While scented candles and store-bought flowers may offer some relief, imagine having your own vibrant crocuses blooming in your yard.

If you’re considering adding crocuses to your garden this fall, look no further. Here are 11 stunning varieties that will bring joy and color to your outdoor space.

Quick Introduction to Different Crocus Species

Before we dive into the best crocus varieties, it’s essential to understand the different species you may encounter:

  • Crocus chrysanthus: Known as “snow crocus,” blooms early in the season.
  • Crocus tommasinianus: Also called “Tommasini’s crocus,” named after a botanist from Trieste, Italy.
  • Crocus vernus: Often referred to as “Dutch crocus,” native to the Pyrenees, Balkans, and Alps.
  • Crocus sativus: The saffron crocus, which blooms in the fall and is used to produce saffron spice.
  • Crocus sieberi: Early bloomer found growing wild on the Greek island of Crete.

Now, let’s explore the 11 best crocus varieties for your garden:

1. Advance

  • Description: Delicate yellow blooms with purple and cream accents.
  • Height: Up to three inches tall.
  • Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3 to 8.
  • Specialty: Drought tolerant and sun-loving.

Planting Tip: Consider planting ‘Advance’ in your front lawn for a stunning color contrast.

2. Barr’s Purple

  • Description: Slender-necked purple flowers with a bowl shape.
  • Height: Four to six inches tall.
  • Hardiness Zones: Zones 4 to 8.
  • Availability: Bags of 15 bulbs available from Burpee.

3. Blue Pearl

  • Description: Light pearly-blue petals, perfect for soft color lovers.
  • Hybridized: Over fifty years ago in Holland.
  • Best Zones: USDA Zones 3 to 8.
  • Availability: Packs of 50, 100, and 200 bulbs from Eden Brothers.

4. Firefly

  • Cultivar: C. sieberi.
  • Description: Pale violet flowers with golden throats.
  • Why Plant: Deer-resistant and easy to maintain.
  • Planting Tip: Create patches for a meadow-like effect.

5. Flower Record

  • Description: Deep purple blooms with vibrant color.
  • Height: Four to six inches tall.
  • Hardiness: Zones 3 to 9.
  • Get Yours: Bags of 15 bulbs from Burpee.

6. Jeanne d’Arc

  • Description: Snow-white and extra hardy.
  • Height: Four to six inches.
  • Pairing Option: Combine with ‘Pickwick’ for a beautiful display.
  • Supply: Bags of 15 bulbs available from Burpee.

7. Orange Monarch

  • Description: Vibrant orange blooms for a spectacular show.
  • Best Zones: USDA Zones 3 to 7.
  • Plant in Groups: 20 to 50 corms for maximum impact.
  • Pick Them Up: Packs of 15 bulbs available at Burpee.

8. Pickwick

  • Description: Lavender petals with delicate purple stripes.
  • Height: Up to six inches tall.
  • Planting Tip: Pair with deer-resistant varieties.
  • Where to Buy: Bags of 15 bulbs from Burpee.

9. Saffron Crocus

  • Description: Bright purple blooms for saffron harvest.
  • Best Zones: USDA Zones 6 to 9.
  • Unique Feature: Harvest and dry red stigmas for saffron.
  • Plant Availability: Packages of 10, 20, 50, or 100 bulbs.

10. Tricolor

  • Description: Violet petals with white and yellow throats.
  • Height: Four to six inches tall.
  • Suitable Zones: Zones 4 to 8.
  • Supply: Bags of 15 bulbs from Burpee.

11. Yellow Mammoth

  • Description: Pool of sunshine in your backyard.
  • Special Feature: Deer-resistant variety.
  • Ideal Zones: Zones 3 to 9.
  • Height: Four to six inches tall.

Planting Tip: Pair ‘Yellow Mammoth’ with hellebores for a breathtaking display.

Explore Mixed Cultivars for a Diverse Garden

If you can’t pick just one variety, consider these mixed options to add a burst of color to your garden:

1. Blue and Yellow Mix

  • Description: Cold-hardy blend of blue and yellow crocuses.
  • Height: Up to six inches.
  • Drought Tolerance: Ideal for dry climates.
  • Get Yours: Bags of 50, 100, and 250 bulbs available from Eden Brothers.

2. Blue Moon Mix

  • Description: White, light purple, and darker purple large-flowering blend.
  • Best Zones: Zones 3 to 8.
  • Availability: Bags of 50, 100, and 250 bulbs through Eden Brothers.

3. Specie Mix

  • Description: Blend of deep purple, white, light violet, dark yellow, and light yellow blooms.
  • Bloom Time: Flowers two weeks earlier than other varieties.
  • Suitable Zones: Zones 3 to 8.
  • Purchase: Bags of 50, 100, and 250 bulbs from Eden Brothers.

A Crocus for Every Gardener

As you explore the diverse world of crocus varieties, you’ll find a bloom suitable for every taste and garden style. Whether you prefer vibrant colors or delicate shades, there’s a crocus waiting to grace your outdoor space with its beauty.

Crochets are ingenious little flowers that will not only brighten up your garden but also multiply over time, providing you with a never-ending display of spring colors. And if outdoor conditions aren’t favorable, don’t forget you can always force bulbs indoors for a touch of springtime cheer.

Have you had the pleasure of growing crocuses in your garden? Share your favorite variety in the comments below and let us know how they’ve added to your outdoor space.

Remember to explore our other articles on crocus cultivation to enhance your gardening knowledge and create a stunning spring display in your yard.

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