About Crocus ligusticus Mariotti
Crocus ligusticus Mariotti is an autumn-flowering crocus species. It produces an underground corm that reaches 15–25 millimeters (0.59–0.98 in) in diameter. The plant grows two or three grass-like, ensiform leaves that reach full growth in May, and can grow up to around 30 centimeters (12 in) tall. Its flowers are solitary and pale purple, borne individually. Each flower holds three anthers that carry yellow-orange pollen, along with bright red, heavily fringed stigmas that stick out from the large perigonium, a feature that makes this species very distinctive. Its flowering season runs from September to October. Like other Crocus species, it is slightly toxic because it contains alkaloids.
This species is native to Liguria and the southern Maritime Alps, which span across France and Italy. It grows naturally in mountain woodland and meadow habitats, at elevations between 600 and 1,700 meters (2,000–5,600 ft) above sea level. In cultivation, it has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
