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Large open rich lilac flowers with distinctive purple veins in October and November. This autumn-flowering crocus is named after its three long deep-red stigmas which are cultivated commercially for colouring and flavouring food. To provide the conditions in which it thrives plant the bulbs 10-15cm (4-6in) deep in August in gritty well-drained soil.

• Garden care: Plant bulbs in naturalistic drifts 10-15cm (4-6in) deep in August in gritty well-drained soil. Where bulbs are planted in grass do not cut the lawn until after the leaves have died back.