Description
The spathes in this form are strongly inflated in the bud stage, like a Physalis (Chinese Lantern) and they are very characteristic as well as diagnostic of this plant.
Each bloom has pure white, reflexing petals, which form a disc 6-7 cm across behind a small pale-yellow corona, greenish-yellow at the base and ringed with crimson. Powerfully fragrant. Height, 20-30 cm.
This form originated in mixed woodland over limestone (with Colchicum neapolitanum, Crocus versicolor and Fritillaria involucrata) in Southern France near Verignon over 35 years ago and has remained in cultivation ever since. It is easy in a damp, humus rich, well-drained spot in light shade.
