Crocus flavus aka Dutch Yellow Crocus

Taxonomy

Crocus flavus, also known as yellow crocus, Dutch yellow crocus, or snow crocus, is a species of flowering plant in the family Iridaceae. It can be found growing wild on the slopes of Greece, former Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, Romania, and northwestern Turkey, and is known for its fragrant bright orange-yellow flowers. Despite being a small crocus, reaching only 5-6 cm in height, this species and its cultivars are commonly used as ornamental plants. The Latin specific epithet flavus translates to "yellow". Tennyson even likened its flowers to a fire. While Crocus flavus is rare as a houseplant, it requires regular watering and long-lasting, direct light to thrive. It prefers well-draining soil and doesn't require added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Dutch Yellow Crocus, Yellow Crocus

How to care for Dutch Yellow Crocus

Difficulty

Dutch Yellow Crocus requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Dutch Yellow Crocus should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Dutch Yellow Crocus loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Dutch Yellow Crocus requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Dutch Yellow Crocus will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Dutch Yellow Crocus to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The Dutch Yellow Crocus should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.


More info:
Wikipedia