Purple Species Crocus Bulbs – Barr's Purple, Deer Resistant, Snow Crocus, Fall Planting

Crocus tommasinianus 'Barr's Purple' is a graceful, early-blooming Snow Crocus with slender, six-petaled flowers in soft lilac-purple that open wide on sunny days and close at dusk — a beautiful, delicate display that arrives a full two weeks before Dutch Giant Crocus. At just 4 inches tall, this is one of the best Species Crocus for naturalizing in lawns, rock gardens, and border fronts. Unlike many crocus types, C. tommasinianus hybrids are notably squirrel-resistant — a practical bonus that makes Barr's Purple especially popular for trouble-free naturalization. Can also be forced indoors for late-winter blooms.

Why Gardeners Love It

• Blooms 2 weeks earlier than Dutch Giant Crocus — one of the very first spring flowers
• Notably squirrel-resistant — C. tommasinianus hybrids are rarely disturbed by rodents
• Deer-resistant too — a low-maintenance choice for gardens with wildlife pressure
• Graceful six-petaled lilac-purple blooms open in sun, close at night — a charming daily rhythm
• Excellent for lawn tapestries, rock gardens, borders, and naturalizing
• Can be forced indoors in pots for late-winter color

Growing Details

• Type: Species Crocus (Snow Crocus / Tommasinianus)
• Bloom color: Soft lilac-purple
• Bloom time: Late March–early April (Zones 4–8)
• Height: 4 inches
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-draining
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–8
• Planting depth: 4 inches
• Spacing: 3–4 inches apart
• Corm size: 5 cm+
• When to plant: Fall

Planting & Care

Plant about 9 corms per square foot for a dense, naturalistic tapestry. In lawn, hold off mowing until foliage has fully died back. Plant in tight clusters in well-draining soil; cover with chicken wire if rodent pressure is a concern (though squirrels rarely bother C. tommasinianus). For indoor forcing: pot up in mid-October, precool at 38–45°F in a dark location for 8–10 weeks with moderate watering, then bring indoors — blooms in about 4 weeks.