Crocus vernus Grand Maître

Crocus 'Grand Maître' is a generous and prolific bulbous plant that brings life to lawns and flower beds as soon as spring returns. Between February and March, it produces large cup-shaped flowers, typical of the genus, carried by a short peduncle, with violet or lilac petals and golden stamens. It will thrive in any moist but well-drained soil that is not too poor. It can easily naturalise if it is happy.

Crocus 'Grand Maître' belongs to the Iridaceae family (like Irises or gladioli). This genus currently includes about 230 recognised species, often quite difficult to differentiate from each other. Some appreciate the undergrowth, others rocky steppes, and still others meadows. 'Grand Maître' is the result of extensive hybridisation, particularly with C. vernus, a species that belongs to meadow crocuses and is found in Europe up to an altitude of 2300m (7546ft). It belongs to the group of Mammoth crocuses, characterised by their vigour and large size. This variety has opulent flowering, with large flowers reaching 15 to 20cm (6 to 8in), with 6 blue-violet or lilac petals in a cup shape, all set with attractive golden stamens. It is an early variety, as it blooms in February. It can bloom until March or April, depending on the region. The long, slender leaves appear shortly before flowering. They are marked with a central white line that contains the stomata, the openings that allow gas exchange with the atmosphere. A few weeks later, the foliage turns yellow and disappears once enough reserves have been stored. It is therefore important not to cut or mow the leaves while they are green, to protect the flowering of future years.

Crocus 'Grand Maître' is an easy and floriferous bulbous plant. It appreciates limestone, but will be satisfied with any well-drained good garden soil that is not too dry or too wet. You can plant it in flower beds, rockeries, and along paths. Scatter your bulbs randomly or create groups of several individuals to create a beautiful effect. Planting a large number of bulbs is preferable to achieve a quick result. Unfortunately, voles eat crocuses, so it is best to be careful if these rodents occupy your land. One solution is to plant them among daffodils or snowdrops, which voles do not like.

Play with shades with Crocus 'Flower Record', or create contrasts with C. ancyrensis 'Golden Bunch', a superb golden variety. By combining it with other later-flowering crocus varieties like C. 'Vanguard', you can also extend the flowering period for several weeks.