Yellow Mammoth Crocus Crocus angustifolius
ABOUT
Crocus angustifolius, commonly known as cloth-of-gold crocus, is a flowering plant notable for its early spring bloom, showcasing a striking display even in chilly weather. The appearance of the plant is characterized by its vibrant funnel-shaped flowers, which exhibit a rich, golden-yellow hue, often with a deep purple or brownish stripe outer segment, creating a beautiful contrast. The flowers emerge from the ground, cupped by thin, grass-like leaves that are typically green with a silvery stripe running down the middle. The leaves often have a delicate, wispy appearance. The bright flowers of the cloth-of-gold crocus are an appealing sight in the early spring landscape, where they provide one of the first splashes of color, signaling the end of winter. The plant itself forms a clump and multiplies over time, with each individual flower supported by a single, slender stem which nestles within the foliage.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Cloth of Gold, Golden Crocus
Common names
Crocus sulphureus, Crocus korolkowii, Crocus susianus, Crocus flavus var. angustifolius.
ToxicityTo humans
Crocus angustifolius, commonly known as the Cloth-of-gold crocus, is not known to be significantly toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities could occur if the plant is ingested or handled. Always exercise caution and consult a medical professional if any adverse reactions are observed after contact with the plant.
To pets
Cloth-of-gold crocus is not typically listed as a toxic plant to pets. However, it is always wise to prevent pets from ingesting plants, as gastrointestinal upset or more severe reactions can occur depending on the animal's sensitivity or if large quantities are consumed. If you suspect your pet has ingested this plant, monitor for any signs of illness and consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
0.3 feet (10 cm)
Spread
0.3 feet (10 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Crocus angustifolius, also known as Cloth of Gold, is valued for its vibrant yellow flowers that add beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Early Blooming: It is one of the early spring bloomers, providing color and interest in the garden when most other plants are not yet in flower.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blooms of Cloth of Gold attract bees and other pollinating insects, helping to support local ecosystems.
- Low Maintenance: This crocus variety is known for being easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance once established in the garden.
- Naturalizing: Crocus angustifolius has the ability to naturalize, meaning it can spread and create larger colonies over time without much human intervention.
- Cold Tolerance: It is cold-hardy, making it suitable for gardens in cooler climates where it can survive winter temperatures.
- Compact Growth: Its compact growth habit makes it suitable for small spaces, rock gardens, and borders, as well as for container gardening.
- Deer and Rodent Resistance: Typically, this plant is resistant to deer and rodents, reducing the likelihood of damage by wildlife.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant activity: Crocus angustifolius, commonly known as saffron crocus, is reportedly high in antioxidants, which may help protect cells from oxidative damage.
- Antidepressant effects: Some studies have suggested that saffron, which can be derived from Crocus angustifolius, might have potential as a natural antidepressant.
- Anticancer potential: Research has looked into saffron's potential to inhibit the growth of various cancer cells, although more research is needed to confirm these effects.
- Neuroprotective effects: The compounds in saffron crocus are being explored for their ability to protect neurons and potentially slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The bioactive compounds in Crocus angustifolius may have anti-inflammatory effects that could be beneficial in reducing inflammation-related diseases.
- Menstrual discomfort relief: There is some evidence to suggest that saffron derived from Crocus angustifolius might help alleviate menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
- Eye health improvement: The crocin in saffron is being investigated for its potential to improve eye health and treat degenerative eye diseases.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crocus angustifolius, commonly known as the Cloth of Gold crocus, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding a range of yellow hues depending on the mordant used.
- The petals of the Cloth of Gold crocus may be pressed or dried to create botanical art and herbarium specimens for educational purposes or artistic compositions.
- This plant is sometimes incorporated into landscape designs for early spring color, particularly in rock gardens or alpine garden settings, where its early bloom adds vibrancy.
- Crocus angustifolius can serve as a companion plant in the vegetable garden, potentially deterring certain pests with its distinctive fragrance when intercropped with vegetables.
- Its attractive blooms are used in the culinary industry as an adornment for dishes and desserts, though generally not consumed themselves.
- Florists may use Crocus angustifolius in seasonal floral arrangements to symbolize cheerfulness due to its bright yellow color, especially during springtime events.
- These plants can also be part of educational projects for children, teaching them about plant life cycles and early-spring blooming flowers.
- The corms of Cloth of Gold crocus can be utilized in craft projects, such as making natural jewelry or decorative items when dried and drilled.
- When planted in mass, the Cloth of Gold crocus can create dramatic visual patterns and designs in lawn areas, being both functional as groundcover and aesthetically pleasing.
- The plant's ability to bloom in snow makes it a candidate for so-called "frozen gardens," where flowers are displayed in ice sculptures or arrangements in cold climates or winter festivals.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Crocus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Crocus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Hope: Crocuses are often one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, signaling the end of winter and the coming of warmer days.
- Youthfulness: The crocus's delicate blooms are reminiscent of the freshness and innocence of youth.
- Cheerfulness: With their bright colors, crocuses can represent joy and cheerfulness, bringing a smile to those who see them after a long winter.
- Rebirth: As spring-blooming flowers, crocuses symbolize resurrection and new beginnings, often associated with Easter and the resurrection of Christ in Christian cultures.
- Attachment: Because crocuses often bloom in clusters, they can symbolize attachment and togetherness in relationships.
WaterThe Crocus angustifolius, commonly known as Golden Crocus, should be watered moderately during its growing season in the spring. The watering frequency typically involves providing about 1 inch of water per week, aiming to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. It is essential to reduce watering after the foliage begins to die back post-blooming and during the dormant period in the late spring to summer, as the plant prefers drier conditions then. If the weather is particularly dry, it may be necessary to provide supplemental water, but always check the top inch of soil for moisture before doing so. Overwatering can lead to bulb rot, so err on the side of too dry rather than too wet.
LightGolden Crocus thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It is best to plant the crocus bulbs in a location where they will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot would be under deciduous trees where they can get sun in the spring before the trees leaf out fully. Bright light encourages the most vigorous bloom, so make sure they are not in too deep shade.
TemperatureFor Golden Crocus, ideal growing temperatures are between 35 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. They are cold-hardy and can survive winter temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit, making them well-suited to survive in colder climates. Crocus angustifolius bulbs require a period of winter chill to bloom properly, which should be a few weeks of cold below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning Golden Crocus is not typically required for the health of the plant, but faded flowers can be removed to maintain a tidy appearance. After blooming, allow the leaves to remain in place until they yellow and die back naturally, which typically takes several weeks, as this period allows the plant to store energy for the next growing season. The best time for any cleanup around the plant would be late spring or early summer once the foliage has died down.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Crocus angustifolius, commonly known as Cloth of Gold crocus, should be well-draining and loamy. It is important to incorporate sand or perlite to ensure adequate drainage. The ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. Adding organic matter like compost can also support healthy growth.
RepottingCloth of Gold crocus typically does not require frequent repotting. These plants are usually grown from corms, which can be left undisturbed in the soil for several years. However, if they become overcrowded, they can be repotted or divided after the foliage has died back in late spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingCloth of Gold crocus prefers average humidity conditions typical of outdoor environments. They are not particularly demanding in terms of humidity, but should not be kept in excessively dry conditions for prolonged periods. Ambient humidity found in most temperate climates is suitable for these plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Cloth of Gold crocus near a sunny window and ensure good soil drainage.
Outdoor
Plant Cloth of Gold crocus in well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleCrocus angustifolius, commonly known as Cloth of Gold, initiates its life cycle as a bulb, spending several months underground in dormancy before emerging in early spring. During its growth stage, it sends up narrow, grass-like leaves and bright yellow flowers, often with a purple or brownish stripe along the middle of each petal, which bloom for a short period before withering. Once the flowering is complete, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis, where the leaves collect energy from the sun and store it in the bulb for next year's growth. After the leaves die back, the Crocus angustifolius bulb enters a period of dormancy throughout the summer and autumn, conserving energy for the next growing season. During the dormancy period, the bulb can also undergo division, producing offsets that will develop into new bulbs and increase the population of plants. With the onset of favorable conditions in the following spring, the cycle begins anew with the emergence of sprouts from the overwintered bulbs.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Crocus angustifolius, commonly known as Cloth of Gold, is typically propagated through corm division, which is the most popular method of propagation for this plant. The best time to propagate this plant is in the late summer after the foliage has died back, signaling that the plant has gone dormant. To propagate by corm division, carefully dig up the corms, which are the bulb-like storage organs of the plant, and brush off any soil. Smaller corms, known as cormlets, usually form around the base of the parent corm. These can be gently detached and replanted. It's important to plant these cormlets around 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm) deep and about 3 inches (7.5 cm) apart in well-draining soil with good exposure to sunlight. With proper care, these cormlets will develop into mature plants that will flower in the following seasons.
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