This small perennial bulb makes a big impact. The solitary blue or white flowers of Tecophilaea appear on slender stems above narrow, grey-green foliage each spring. The upward-facing blooms bring a welcome splash of colour from March to April, in a shade that would rival the bluest alpine sky!

At just 10cm tall, the Chilean Crocus deserves a prominent position where this rare beauty can be closely admired. When planted in frost-free climates it makes an intriguing addition to scree and gravel gardens, alpine troughs or simply dotted in groups at the front of a sheltered, free draining border. In colder climates, it is best grown in pots that can be moved to a cool but frost-free location during the coldest weather. This charming alpine bulb is highly collectable but seldom offered – a real find for plant enthusiasts and collectors of the rare and beautiful!

How to plant:

— Tecophilaea bulbs are supplied in autumn for planting between September and December.

— They are best planted within 6 weeks of delivery. If you’re not ready to plant them as soon as you receive them, you can open the packets to let air circulate around the bulbs and store them in a cool, dry place. Don't store them for too long, they must be planted during autumn in the same year that they're suppled to you.

— In mild climates, Tecophilaea bulbs can be planted directly outside in borders or patio containers, but they will require a sheltered spot with protection from frosts. In cold climates they are best grown in pots which can be moved to a frost-free location when temperatures drop below 0C.

— If planting in containers, we recommend using a gritty, peat-free multipurpose compost.

— When planting into borders, choose a sheltered position in full sun on any sandy well-drained acid to neutral soil.

— Chilean Crocus bulbs should be planted 5cm deep with the shoots facing upwards. Towards the end of the planting season, the shoots may already have started to grow – they should be planted at the usual depth with the shoots kept intact below the surface.

— Space the bulbs 5-10cm apart from each other.

— Cover back over with soil/compost. If the soil is very dry, it’s a good idea to water them in after planting to settle them. They will not require any further watering through winter unless you have very mild winters and the soil becomes dry. They will only require water in spring if it is warm and the soil is dry.

Aftercare:

— Tecophilaea will naturally die back after flowering. Allow the foliage to turn yellow before removing it as this will help to feed the bulb for the following year.

— These bulbs can be left in the soil all year round and do not require lifting

— During dormancy, only water occasionally to keep the soil just damp, but never wet as this may cause rotting.

— Chilean Crocus is tolerant of cold weather but will appreciate protection from frosty weather. Where temperatures frequently drop below 0C they are best grown in pots and moved to a cold greenhouse or conservatory on frosty nights.

— Potted bulbs should be re-potted every 2 years into fresh compost for the best results.