Description

Crocus tommasinianus, often referred to as the “Woodland Crocus,” is one of the earliest and most reliable spring bulbs for naturalising in Irish gardens. Its graceful, pale violet to mauve blooms appear from mid-February, offering a much-needed splash of colour when few other flowers are in bloom.

Ideal for informal planting, this species thrives in grassy areas, orchard floors, woodland margins, and beneath deciduous trees. It establishes quickly and spreads over time by both offsets and self-seeding, creating natural carpets that increase in density with each season. This makes it especially useful in long-term, low-intervention planting schemes such as public green spaces, wildflower verges, and biodiversity-first projects.

Crocus tommasinianus is a superb partner for Galanthus nivalis, Chionodoxa luciliae, and Anemone blanda, helping to layer colour and forage availability for early pollinators. It performs best in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils typical of Irish lawns and woodland gardens.