Nature Says It All

Crocus

Spring has come, when the crocus burst forth from the earth after a frozen winter. For months, we looked forward to seeing these beautiful and small flowers bloom. Above you see two bees in search of nectar. One waiting for the other to finish. Left is a bee enjoying the sweet nectar, wings spread out behind, arms hanging onto the stigma which are the three yellow/orange parts in the center of the flower.

How did the crocus get its name? It is named after the Latin word crocatus which means saffron yellow. In Greek, saffron means krokos. The crocus is a member of the iris family.

Saffron is a spice used all over the world. Although very expensive, it is used for coloring fabric and is used in medicines. Saffron has been shown to help with memory, helps with coughs and other health concerns. A pound of saffron spice is made up of approximately 75,000 flowers and it takes 4,500 flowers for one ounce of spice. As you know, they are very small flowers.

How do you feel when you see a crocus? Does it make you happy? Crocus are symbols of joy and fun, among other things. I always feel happy when I see the crocuses. To me, they bring hope and joy.

Did you know that crocuses don't have a stem? Because of this, we are unable to cut a crocus to bring into our homes. It will fall apart. How do they get their nutrients? Underground is their corm which supplies all the nutrients it needs and protects them from the cold. .
When the crocus burst forth from the snowy ground, they do not feel the cold because they are covered in wax.

They were cultivated 500 years BC.

So, the next time you see a crocus, I hope you will smile and remember a few of these facts. Remember that I only share a window of knowledge. There is always more to learn.

Coming next week: learn about the eastern bluebird.

Thank you for visiting!

Judy

References:

https://ucanr.edu/sites/urbanhort/files/80135.pdf

https://www.britannica.com/plant/Crocus