Information on Loughborough

Crocus blooming signals spring

Posted on 08/02/2012
University of Leicester

Crocus blooming signals spring

Despite current short, cold and grey days, signs of springs are appearing at the University of Leicester’s Botanic Garden.

One of the first flowers to bloom in spring, crocuses are coming back to put on a spectacular display throughout the Sandstone Garden in front of Beaumont Hall.

To celebrate blooming of beautiful Crocus tommasinianus, the Friends of the Botanic Garden have arranged to open the Garden to the public on two Sunday afternoons from 10am to 4pm.

A short walk in the fresh air will take you past borders where you can see colourful Hellebores and Winter Aconites, You might still be able to see some Viburnums, Witch-hazels, and the related Persian Ironwood if they are still in flower. The walk leads to the Alpine House in whose sheltered environment you’ll find a colourful show of flowering bulbs.

Director, Richard Gornall commented:

“This is a wonderful display that far too few people get to see. It’s a bright spot in an otherwise quiet time in the gardening calendar.”

The University’s Biology Department will also put on an exhibition in Beaumont Hall about research on crocuses with tea, coffee and home-made cakes being served.

Continuing with its tradition to support local charities, entrance to the Garden is by donation to the local Air Ambulance Rescue Service charity: the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance.

Crocus Sundays take place this year on 19th & 26th February between 10am-4pm. Please come to the Glebe Road entrance where you will be welcomed and shown where to go by Friends of the Garden.

For more information, please contact Botanic Garden at 0116 271 2933, botanicgarden@le.ac.uk or visit their website http://www.le.ac.uk/botanicgarden