DESCRIPTION: Crocus olivieri ssp. balansae 'Orange Monarch' is an extraordinarily vibrant and unusual variety, belonging to a lesser-known yet highly fascinating botanical species: Crocus olivieri, native to the Balkan region and Asia Minor. The subspecies balansae is named after the French botanist Benjamin Balansa, and the selection ‘Orange Monarch’ is renowned for its intense colors, reminiscent of the hues found on monarch butterfly wings — hence its evocative name. The flowers of 'Orange Monarch' are among the most vivid in the entire Crocus genus. They have the classic, cup-shaped form that opens in sunlight. Their appearance is truly dazzling: Bright orange petals, rich and warm, sometimes with subtle golden undertones. The outer side of the petals features purplish-brown streaks, creating a dynamic contrast between exterior and interior. The center glows with deep yellow stamens, harmonizing perfectly with the overall flower tone. This crocus is impossible to overlook: it lights up the garden during the bare and cold months with an explosion of warm, vibrant color. Size: Height: 8–10 cm; Flower diameter: approx. 4–5 cm; Blooming time: very early, from late winter to early spring (February–March). 🌿 Cultivation: Crocus olivieri ssp. balansae 'Orange Monarch' is hardy and fairly resilient, though still somewhat less common in cultivation than the more popular chrysanthus or vernus types. Planting time: in autumn (September–November); Soil: very well-drained, preferably light or sandy; Exposure: full sun, essential for good flowering; Bulb depth: 6–8 cm; Spacing between bulbs: 5–10 cm; Maintenance: minimal; it dislikes waterlogged soil but tolerates cold well; 🌱 Ideal for: rock gardens, low borders, naturalized lawns (where it can multiply), terrace containers, provided they are well-drained and sunny. It’s perfect for those looking for something different, with a color that evokes warm days right in the heart of winter. 🐝 Pollinator Appeal: Thanks to its early and abundant blooming, it’s highly appreciated by pollinators — especially bees and bumblebees — who find in it a valuable source of nourishment when few other plants are in flower. ✨ In Summary: Crocus olivieri ssp. balansae 'Orange Monarch' is an exceptionally colorful and lively variety, delivering a bold orange spectacle at the very start of the year. Hardy, early, and unique in character, it’s ideal for those who want to bring energy and warmth to the garden with a plant that’s easy to grow yet striking in effect. A true botanical gem for spring bulb lovers and collectors of rare varieties.

PACKAGE: The package contains 10 bulbs of Crocus olivieri subsp. balansae 'Orange Monarch’. The bulbs have a circumference of 5/7 cm (about 2 cm in diameter). The packaging features a beautiful illustrative photo and includes planting and flowering information, making it an excellent gift idea.

HOW TO GROW: Plant the bulbs about 8 cm deep in full sun or partial shade, either in pots or directly in the ground. Space the bulbs approximately 5 cm apart. Use rich, well-drained soil and water moderately. Plant the bulbs between September and December. Flowering will occur between February and April.

SELECTION AND QUALITY: The bulbs come with a phytosanitary passport and undergo a strict quality control process to ensure splendid blooms from the first year.

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