A slow spreading, bulbous perennial to around 15cm high, with elliptic, deep green leaves mottled with purple-brown. Solitary flowers, with strongly reflexed purple petals, golden brown markings at the base and dark blue anthers, are borne on slender stems in spring
0.1-0.5 metres
0-0.1 metre
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Grow in light or dappled shade, in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil that does not dry out in summer. Bulbs must be kept slightly damp until planted, and planted at least 10cm deep in late summer or early autumn. Well suited to woodland planting. See bulb cultivation
Propagate by division of established clumps, after flowering. Plants dislike disturbance and may take time to re-establish
No pruning required
May be susceptible to slugs
Generally disease-free
