Crocus Jeanne d´Arc - ORG

Joan of Arc was not afraid. Nor is her namesake in the garden. This snow-white crocus appears early, fearlessly and without fuss, right in the midst of the still-chilly spring. No tentative shoots, but fully open straight away — white as freshly fallen snow, with a yellow centre that bees can spot from afar. The name suits her: there is something heroic about her.

A crocus for the bees

Early bees and bumblebees search for nectar in February and March at a time when few other flowers are in bloom. The Jeanne d’Arc is then one of the first welcoming flowers in the garden. Its white colour reflects warmth and the yellow centre is a clear signal to pollinators. Plant her in groups for maximum effect — a white patch buzzing with activity as soon as the sun comes out.

Naturalisation and return

The Jeanne d’Arc is a wild crocus of the Crocus vernus variety and naturalises beautifully in lawns, borders or under deciduous trees. Plant the corms in autumn at a depth of 8–10 cm, laid loosely for a natural look. After flowering, wait to mow until the foliage has turned yellow — this allows the corm to store energy for the following year. Once planted, it returns annually and spreads slowly. Organically grown, certified NL-BIO-01.