Different Flowering Purple Bulbs

Small Camas

• Camassia, or small camas, is native to the prairies and grasslands of North America. Native Americans traded the bulb for food, and journal entries from the Lewis and Clark expedition describe the bulb's onion taste and the beautiful flowers. After seeing a field of small camas, Lewis wrote that it resembled "lakes of fine clear water." Flowers are lavender and have six petals spaced apart, creating an airy effect. The small camas flourishes in full sun and prefers acidic moist soil. Plants grow to a height of 8 to 36 inches and flower in late spring to summer. Bulbs are planted in fall and survive temperatures to 23 degrees Fahrenheit.

Hyacinth

• Hyacinth flowers emerge in late winter and early spring after the snow has melted -- cause for celebration among gardeners. Spikes of fragrant flowers come in blue and deep purple hues and reach 6 to 12 inches high. Hyacinth prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Bulbs should be planted 6 inches deep and at least 8 inches apart and can be mingled with white pansies for a showy display. They do well in outdoor and indoor pots, and cut flowers will perfume your home for about a week.

Autumn Crocus

• Though similar in appearance and name, the autumn crocus or Colchicum autumnale is not related to the spring blooming crocus. This plant grows 4 to 12 inches tall and flowers in late summer through autumn. Cup-like flowers come in various shades of purple and complement the colors of fall. The autumn crocus prefers full sun or light shade and a planting depth of 5 inches. Bulbs are very hardy and will survive to a frigid 14 F.

Ixiolirion

• Ixiolirion reach 15 to 24 inches tall and produces delicate lavender flowers in late spring into early summer. Plants do well in a sunny spot and prefer moisture during flowering. Ixiolirion can be planted in groups for a pleasing colorful effect. Bulbs are planted at a depth of 5 inches, 4 to 6 inches apart and can survive a low temperature of 23 F.