This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile, neutral to slightly alkaline soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: February to March
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Exquisite reddish purple flowers, each with a shock of orange on the falls, brighten up pots and front of border positions in late winter. They may be small in size, but these potted bulbous perennials are real beauties, so you can enjoy their display while still in the pot and then plant them out, or pop them straight into the garden - making sure they are placed somewhere that they won't be overlooked.
  
  
• Garden care: Water moderately while they are actively growing and keep reasonably dry during their dormant period.