Colchicum the Autumn Crocus

So it's spring and we are considering what to plant in the garden, well why not look to Autumn, it is a great time to plant bulbs for a late display.
Colchicum are often referred to as the Autumn Crocus and indeed many species do flower at this time of the year.
Now although Colchicum Speciosum 'album' is well know, as is Colchicum autumnale it is well worth looking a little further afield. Colchicum byzantinum has been grown for many years and in fact may well be one of the oldest hybrids in cultivation.
Very showy flowers and easy care.... You can read more about Colchicum Bulbs on the web site.
Now Colchicum are not really a crocus, and in fact some true crocuses do flower in autumn, but thats another story.

Lotus Flowers - Nelumbo nucifera

It is not likely that you will be growing these in the pond (it's a little cold in the UK), however Nelumbo nucifera is  a fascinating plant. The Lotus flower pictured is a hybrid, 'Mrs Perry Slocum'. In India they are an important symbol in religion particularly the white flowering varieties. We just think they are wonderful. 

You could of course grow them in a hothouse, if you had the space. Read more about Lotus flowers on the Nurseries Online UK website Lotus Page. 

And you might  like to check out the information on water lilies as well, now these you can grow in the UK.