Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale) is one of those plants that comes with a bit of a warning label because it’s highly toxic. But honestly? Those stunning blooms it pops out every fall are a total dream. If you’re a fan of late-season color, you don’t have to go hunting for them in the wild—you can easily grow them right in your own backyard.
Growing Autumn Crocus in Meadows, Lawns, and Near Shrubs
As long as you’re careful with the handling, the Autumn Crocus rewards you with gorgeous flowers in shades of purple, pink, and light violet. To get that picture-perfect display, though, you’ll want to follow a few simple steps.
The easiest way to get started is by planting bulbs. In nature, you’ll usually find these beauties in damp meadows or tucked along the edges of wooded areas. If you get them in the ground during the summer, you’ll be treated to a spectacular show just six weeks later!
The reason they grow so fast is pretty cool: when you plant the bulb, the flower buds are already fully formed inside. August is the absolute best time to plant them. By mid-September, you’ll already have those lovely blossoms brightening up your garden.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Autumn Crocus
First things first, pick the right spot. They love a sunny to partially shaded area that stays nice and warm. The soil should be rich in nutrients, fresh, and moist, but also loose and well-draining. Here’s how to get them in the ground:
- Safety first: Put on a pair of gardening gloves to avoid direct contact with the toxic bulb.
- Prep the area: Give the soil a good rake, pull any weeds, and clear out rocks or old roots.
- Dig in: Use a hand trowel to dig a hole about 6 to 8 inches deep.
- Give them space: If you’re planting several, space them about 12 inches apart.
- Planting: Set the bulb in the hole with the pointy end facing up.
- Finish up: Cover the bulb with soil and give it a good drink of water.
If you want a really lush look, I recommend planting them in groups of 5 to 15. That spacing is key so the flowers and leaves have plenty of room to breathe. One unique thing about the Autumn Crocus is that the flowers appear in the fall without any leaves. The foliage actually waits until spring to show up (without flowers), growing up to 15 inches long before dying back.
