Crocus abantensis

This a a comparatively new species, first discovered around the shores of Lake Abant in Turkey. It has freely borne flowers in a lovely shade of light blue with a sharply contrasted bright yellow throat zone in the centre.

Although another species, Crocus baytopiorum has the name for being a 'blue crocus' abantensis is a much better do-er than baytopiorum in lowland cultivation in Europe and it makes a tremendous show in February.

Standard Crocus conditions of fertile, loam-based soil in full sun, a little drier in summer but not 'baked'.