Colchicum speciosum ‘Atrorubens’, commonly known as Fall Crocus, is a captivating fall-blooming perennial known for its striking amethyst-purple flowers with a luminous white throat.
Here’s what you need to know about this beautiful plant:
Description:
- Fall Crocus ‘Atrorubens’ produces large, goblet-shaped flowers with a captivating amethyst-purple hue and a contrasting white throat. These flowers appear on deep purple stems, creating a stunning visual display.
- The plant’s foliage, characterized by strap-like leaves, emerges in spring, well after the flowers have bloomed. This unique growth pattern adds to its appeal.
Growing Conditions:
- This fall-blooming Colchicum is renowned for its ease of cultivation. It thrives in average garden soil with medium moisture levels and good drainage. It can be grown in full sun or part shade.
- Fall Crocus ‘Atrorubens’ is exceptionally low-maintenance and tends to naturalize easily. Once established, it returns year after year, creating a reliable source of late-season color.
Awards and Recognition:
- This particular variety of Fall Crocus has received the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), highlighting its outstanding qualities.
Landscaping Uses:
- Fall Crocus ‘Atrorubens’ can be used to create a stunning display in various garden settings. It looks particularly striking in front of shrubs, among low-growing perennials, in woodlands, meadows, around patios, or along walkways.
- The plant is generally resistant to diseases, but it’s advisable to keep an eye out for slugs, which can sometimes be a concern.
Planting and Propagation:
- To enjoy its fall blooms, plant the corms 7 inches deep and 4 inches apart in late summer.
- Propagation can be done by seed, sowing them in containers in an open frame when ripe, or by separating corms when they are dormant in the summer.
Caution:
- It’s important to note that all parts of this plant are highly toxic if ingested, making it unattractive to deer, rabbits, and other animals.
Native Range:
- Fall Crocus ‘Atrorubens’ is native to mountainous regions of northern Turkey, the Caucasus, and northern Iran.
In summary, Colchicum speciosum ‘Atrorubens’ is a remarkable fall-blooming perennial that adds a touch of elegance and vibrant color to the late-season garden. Its distinctive growth pattern and richly colored flowers make it a favorite among gardeners seeking to extend the beauty of their landscapes into the autumn months.