Dutch Crocus

Dutch crocus (Crocus vernus) is a low-growing spring corm with narrow, dark green leaves and goblet-shaped flowers in white or shades of purple. It can naturalize in grass and makes an early display in beds and containers. See the [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/29659/crocus-vernus/details) and [NC State Extension’s Dutch Crocus page](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/crocus/common-name/dutch-crocus/). ## Flowers and placement Plant corms in groups near the front of a border, in a lawn drift, or in a shallow container. The RHS lists a maximum height up to 10 cm and spread up to 0.1 m; selections vary in vigor, so leave room for a small clump to naturalize. ## Growing conditions Choose a sunny site with soil that drains freely. Plant corms in late summer or autumn at the depth recommended by the supplier. Avoid heavy, persistently wet soil, where corms can rot. Spring crocuses are dormant through the warmest part of the year. ## Maintenance Allow leaves to yellow and die back naturally after flowering, since they replenish the corms for the next season. No regular pruning is needed; divide crowded clumps when dormant if you want to move them.