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Alpine RockeryBulbs

Tecophilaea cyanocrocus
  • RHS AGM

Chilean blue crocus

T. cyanocrocus is a cormous perennial to 10cm in height, with narrow greyish-green leaves and slender stems bearing solitary, erect, intense blue, white-centred, crocus-like flowers 3-4cm in width

Other common names
Chilean crocus
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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0–0.1 metre
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Blue White
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Tecophilaeaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Tufted
Potentially harmful
Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Genus

Tecophilaea are cormous herbaceous perennials with linear-lance-shaped basal leaves and 1-2 funnel-shaped, vivid blue or violet, often white-throated flowers in spring

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Chile

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained, sandy soil in full sun; protect from frost. Or grow in a pot in an alpine house: plant 5cm deep in a mix of equal parts loam-based potting compost and sharp sand; water in growing season but reduce watering as the leaves die down in summer

Propagation

Propagate by removing offsets in late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden
  • Wildlife gardens
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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