CORM IMAGES
Crocus fleischeri corm
This species has tunics with interwoven fibres, which are the most
netted in the genus and as such are a principal distinguishing feature
Crocus laevigatus corm
This
species has a hard, coriaceous (eggshell like) corm tunic.
The
corms are distinctively shaped and relatively small. A thick
hard
tunic gives extra protection from drought.
Crocus hermoneus corm
A very large
corm with parallel fibres, which are slightly netted at
the top
of the corm.
Crocus gilanicus corm
Example
of a membranous or papery tunic and what might be
thought of as a ‘typical’ corm
shape. Thin tunics such as this
often indicate species which
come from relatively moist habitats.
Crocus abantensis corms
An
example of reticulate (netted) corm tunic.
TUNIC IMAGES
Crocus biflorus tunics (wild)
Coriaceous (eggshell-like)
tunics which can split at the base.
Basal rings (see below) are a
feature of this species.
Wild plants often have several
years accumulation of
tunics wrapped around them.
Crocus biflorus tunic basal
rings
Crocus cancellatus tunics
(wild)
Netted
tunics, which have accumulated around the corm over
many years
giving protection from extreme drought.
Crocus pallasii haussknechtii
(wild)
Fibrous
tunics with extended neck.
Many
years accumulation of tunics around the bulb
Indicate
that this species comes from a semi-desert habitat.