Spring Crocus

This attractive perennial is one of the first true signs of spring. As the sun warms the ground (even through the snow) early in the season (or late in winter) these stalwart plants push their green shoots upward and often bloom before they they have fully emerged.

Hardy for zones 4a to 9a, they grow to a height and spread of 3 inches to 6 inches. Exposure needs are partial shade to partial sun to full sun. Bloom colors can be blue, orange, pink, purple, white and yellow.

Moisture levels are forgiving - dry to moist. They are adaptable to loamy or neutral well drained soil conditions. Ideal landscape uses include borders, rock gardens, some containers and alpine gardens.

As with many flowers of this variety, all parts of this plant are poisonous, so caution planting with young children.