BOTANY, TAXONOMY AND CYTOLOGY OF CROCUS VERNI ? SERIES

The genus crocus ( Family - Iridaceae) contains ca 100 small, corm bearing, perennial species distributed Central south Europe no rth Africa, south Asia and west China. These species are highly valuated as ornamental plants of their colourful flowers, horticultural varieties and Industrial applications. Sub - genus Crocus series crocus verni series are closely related species; and are difficult to be separated taxonomically and have a complex cytology. Botany of c. varni series, taxonomy of their species are their infra - specific taxa are presented, and their distribution, ecology and phenology; full description and chromosome counts are proved with key of their identification. Key words : series.