Crocus Species 'Ard Schenk'

Overview

Crocus Species 'Ard Schenk': The White Winter Star

Brighten the darkest days of winter with the pristine, snowy elegance of Crocus 'Ard Schenk'. A standout variety of the "Snow Crocus" (Crocus chrysanthus), this award-winning bulb is celebrated for its brilliant, pure white petals that surround a glowing golden-yellow centre. While delicate in appearance, it possesses a robust constitution, often pushing through frozen ground or lingering snow to bloom as early as February. It is a fantastic naturaliser that produces multiple flowers per bulb, quickly forming a shimmering carpet of white in lawns, rockeries, or under deciduous shrubs. Its clean, crisp colour provides a striking contrast against bare dark soil, making it an essential highlighter for the early spring garden.

Key Features

• Award-Winning Variety: A recipient of the RHS Award of Garden Merit, recognizing it as a reliable, high-performing plant that thrives in average garden conditions.

• Prolific Flowering: Unlike larger Dutch crocuses, this species variety is known for its generosity, often producing 3 to 4 blooms from a single corm for a fuller display.

• Classic Elegance: The combination of translucent white petals and bright orange-yellow anthers offers a timeless look that fits both modern minimal gardens and cottage styles.

• Pollinator Favourite: The open, cup-shaped flowers are a beacon for early foraging bees, providing critical energy when very few other plants are in bloom.

Gardener's Tip

'Ard Schenk' looks beautiful on its own, but it truly shines when planted alongside deep purple or blue varieties like Crocus 'Barr's Purple' or Crocus 'Blue Pearl'. The sharp contrast between the snowy white and the deep violet creates a vibrant, eye-catching display. Plant them in mixed clusters in a shallow bowl or window box for a stunning "salt and pepper" effect.

Specifications