Plant during the recommended period shown in the variety’s specifications. If you cannot plant straight away, store them somewhere cool, dry and well ventilated.
'Leichtlinii'
Chilean blue crocus
Tecophilaea 'Leichtlinii' is a refined take on the Chilean blue crocus, offering a fresh twist with its striking bicoloured blooms. Each flower is a graceful funnel of vivid blue with a prominent, snow-white throat that seems to glow from within. Measuring 3–4cm across, these crocus-like flowers perch elegantly atop slender stems, framed by neat, greyish-green leaves that complete the picture of springtime sophistication. Tecophilaea cyanocrocus 'Leichtlinii' may be petite, but it certainly knows how to draw attention.
Holding the RHS Award of Garden Merit, Tecophilaea 'Leichtlinii' combines exceptional beauty with proven performance. It thrives in well-drained soil and a sunny, sheltered position—perfect for alpine troughs, raised beds, or treasured pots on the patio. Best admired up close, its early spring flowers bring a welcome jolt of colour just as winter’s grip begins to loosen. Whether you're a seasoned alpine enthusiast or simply looking for something out of the ordinary, Tecophilaea cyanocrocus 'Leichtlinii' offers rare charm and enduring appeal. A little showstopper with an elegant streak, it’s a brilliant addition to any spring garden.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Check whether your varieties prefer sun or shade, then choose a sheltered position in well-drained soil or a suitable pot or container.
Remove weeds and loosen compacted soil. Improve heavy ground with organic matter and horticultural grit. For containers, use peat-free multipurpose compost and ensure good drainage.
Plant at the depth recommended for each variety, as their requirements differ. Position shoots or pointed ends upwards. If the correct direction is unclear, plant them on their sides.
Follow the recommended spacing for each variety. Planting in clusters or informal drifts creates a natural display, but avoid placing them directly against one another.
Water after planting if the soil is dry. Keep containers lightly moist but never waterlogged. After flowering, allow foliage to yellow naturally before removing it.
- Botanical name
- Tecophilaea cyanocrocus 'Leichtlinii'
- Flower colour
- Blue, white
- Bulb size
- 6/+
- Established height
- 5-10cm
- Established spread
- 5-10cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
- Upright
- Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- Yes
- Plant spacing
- 100 bulbs per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
-
Sheltered
Exposed - Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- Scented
- Yes
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
-
Damp
Free draining - Soil type
-
Loam
Sandy
Clay
Multipurpose compost
Loam-based compost - Suitable for
-
Pots
Large containers
Borders
Ground cover
Meadows
Woodland gardens
Cottage gardens
Cut flower Gardens
Low maintenance gardens - Sunlight
- Full sun
- Toxicity
-
Skin/eyes irritant
Harmful if eaten - Years to establish
- 1st year
Expert care from
choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.