Every year in late summer and early autumn, visitors to Lake Wilderness Arboretum can view a delicate flower that is usually thought of as a harbinger of spring.

That flower is the autumn crocus, a singular, salverform bloom that is often seen before any of the grass like leaves appear. In the arboretum, the crocus flowers look like they’re blooming from a clover-like ground cover; however, the two are different plants.

Autumn crocus should not be confused with a different genus of autumn-flowering plants, colchicum. In general, crocuses have three stamens and are native to woodland areas. They bloom in many colors; the autumn crocuses in the arboretum are a pale lilac and white combination.

Pacific Northwest gardeners who know about autumn crocus plant the bulbs to create brilliant color in the fall. Many have stunning jewel-like flowers that last for weeks. Gardeners who are also fond of cooking also enjoy the autumn blooming Saffron Crocus. The exotic and expensive spice saffron is harvested from the stigmas of crocus sativus.

The next free public docent tour of the arboretum is scheduled for 10 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 19.

Visit LakeWildernessArboretum.org, email info@lakewildernessarboretum.org or call 253-293-5103 to volunteer, donate or become a member.