code: 706
It is found in meadows and rocky slopes in Spain
Family: Colchicaceae
Common name: Merendera montana, Bulbocodium montanum, Sowy Colchicum, False Autum Crocus
Plant Classification: Hardy bulb Hardy perennial
Minimum Height: 5 cm
Maximum Height: 8 cm
Packet Content(approx.): 10
One of the most lovely of the “autumn crocuses”, this one has noticeably long and thing petals. The short-stemmed flowers, which open in early autumn, actually rest on the ground, and are followed by thin, linear leaves. It is found in meadows and rocky slopes in Spain and Portugal from lowland to the lower alpine regions, up to 2600 m.
Sowing advice:
Sow seeds at any time covering them with compost or grit 5mm deep, in a cool, well-lit spot outdoors. Artificial heat is not needed and can prevent germination. Many species will only germinate in the spring after a good chilling or freezing in the moist seed tray in the winter. Grow on seedlings in small pots before planting out into sharply draining compost in a pot, or the open ground in a well-drained spot.
Culture:
Best grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Sharp soil drainage helps prevent corm rot. Purchase dormant corms in late summer (August) and plant them immediately (3” deep and 6” apart) for bloom in fall. Dig and divide corms when plants become crowded (every 3 years). Site corms in areas where the short flowers may be enjoyed in fall but where the taller spring foliage will not interfere with other perennials. Reduce watering when the foliage yellows and begins to die back (July). Resume watering again in late summer.
Problems:
No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for slugs and snails. Fungal smut may attack the leaves (remove and destroy affected plants). Weak flower stems tend to flop.
