Crocus Species 'Ruby Giant'

Overview

Crocus 'Ruby Giant': The Vibrant Violet Carpet

Make a bold statement in the early spring garden with Crocus 'Ruby Giant', one of the most popular and vigorous varieties of the Woodland Crocus (Crocus tommasinianus). Despite its name, the flowers are not actually red, but a rich, deep spectrum-violet that glows with intensity. It lives up to the "Giant" part of its name by producing flowers that are larger and taller than the wild species, standing out proudly against the bare earth or winter grass. Famous for its incredible ability to naturalise, it spreads rapidly via self-seeding and offsets to form immense, shimmering purple drifts under trees and shrubs. It is robust, weather-resistant, and widely considered squirrel-resistant, making it a trouble-free choice for any gardener.

Key Features

• Intense Colour: The deep violet-purple petals are lighter at the base and surround a contrasting bright orange stamen, creating a vivid pop of colour that is visible from a distance.

• Rapid Naturaliser: This is arguably the best crocus for creating a "purple carpet" effect; it multiplies freely and will happily colonize large areas of lawn or meadow over just a few years.

• Rodent Resistant: Unlike the large Dutch hybrids, Crocus tommasinianus varieties contain compounds that make them far less attractive to hungry squirrels and mice.

• Pollinator Superfood: An essential early-season nectar source, these blooms are often buzzing with activity on the first mild days of February and March.

Gardener's Tip

'Ruby Giant' thrives in the dappled shade found under deciduous trees. For a classic parkland look in your own garden, plant a circle of these bulbs around the base of your favourite tree (about 30-50 bulbs). Over time, they will spread outwards to create a stunning purple "skirt" that returns every spring without any maintenance.

Specifications