Bulbous perennial of the Iridaceae family, Crocus speciosus originates from a vast area extending from the Caucasus and Crimea to Iran and Central Asia, with populations present in Turkey and the Balkans. In its natural habitat, it frequents high-altitude meadows, clearings, rocky lawns, and grassy slopes, between about 1,000 and 2,500 meters.
The 'Cassiope' cultivar is distinguished by its large, bright lilac blue flowers, slightly veined with purple, with a bright yellow throat that creates a striking contrast at the heart of the flower. The tepals are wide, well-spread, and the bright orange style, deeply branched, adds to the elegance of the whole. It is one of the most generous selections in flower size among the autumnal forms of the species.
In its natural habitat, the species blooms from September to November. In cultivation, 'Cassiope' generally blooms in October, before the appearance of the foliage which develops the following spring.
It naturalizes readily in light lawns, under deciduous trees, or in rock gardens. Well-drained soil, a sunny to semi-shaded exposure, and a dry summer rest period promote abundant and regular flowering.