The Crocus – A Golden Spring Has Sprung

  • Post published:03/16/2022
  • Post comments:2 Comments
Golden Crocus

As I opened the car door this morning I saw a golden crocus shining in the sun. I was amazed and delighted. I did not see any other crocus buds, but there were many green shoots making themselves aware. Now I can say spring has really sprung.

Crocus varieties are not native to the United States or environs, but they are certainly very popular here now. They bloom so early and brightly, a delight in the very early spring.

I am only interested in the bright blooms, but those colors are not only a pleasure for me. Crocuses have many uses. Certain crocus species produce large stigma, the pollen-holding parts inside the flower. It is hard and fine work to remove these stigmas. They are dried and produce a flavorful spice. In addition. Saffron is also used as a strong dye, from gold to orange.

The Chinese use saffron for medicinal purposes, as do others. A common use is to relieve stress.

Needless to say some crocuses have symbolisms with different meanings. The deep purple is the traditional color for royalty, but it also refers to dignity and success. Very dark purples refer to the wisdom of experience.

Poets have found poetry in crocus. Emily Dickinson is just one. Louise Gluck is another.

I am hoping for more crocus soon. I can see their shoots. But other flowers are sending out their shoots – like the Leucojum (Genus), otherwise known as Snowflake.

Snowflake – Leucojum

I have some clumps of Snowflake which some people think are giant lily of the valley, but they are from a different family, Amaryllidaceae.

Now  as the sun rises higher and higher, I’ll watch shoots grow taller and taller. At the same time, some groundcovers will be making themselves known.

Barren Strawberry

Barren strawberry (Geum fragarioides) are already sending out new rhizomes and little leaves. But it will not be long before they are sending out sunshine as well as the crocus.

This Post Has 2 Comments

  1. Beth@PlantPostings

    Very exciting! I don’t have any crocuses blooming yet, but it won’t be long. I noticed some snowdrops are just about to bloom. Happy spring!

  2. Pat

    Beth – I’m waiting for the other crocuses – in different colors.

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