Composition : 99,999% gold
Mintage : 1,400

The gift of spring - Manitoba.s prairie crocus

Winter in Manitoba seems to last forever, but as soon as the days start to lengthen, the beautiful prairie crocus begins to bloom, often through melting snow.

What a welcome sight! The dots of light lavender, bluish-purple blooms decorate the white landscape. And if one looks closely, one will seebright yellow stamens inside the blossoms and fine hairs on the flowers and leaves; added protection against sudden frigid temperature changes.

The name "crocus" is a misnomer; these springtime flowers reminded early settlers of the crocus they knew back home. However, the European crocus is a member of the iris family whereas the prairie crocus (Pulsatilla ludoviciana or Anemone patens) is related to the buttercup.

The prairie crocus was adopted as Manitoba.s floral emblem in 1906, but this hardy plant can be grown almost anywhere in Canada. But be patient; this drought-resistant plant will spend the first few years establishing an extensive root system and won.t flower until the third season. After that, count on springtime blooms for a lifetime!

This coin is the thirteenth issue of the Provincial floral collection that began in 1998.

CANADIAN FLORAL EMBLEMS - PRAIRIE CROCUS - 2010 CANADIAN COINS 13 is categorised COINS AND PAPER MONEY / 08- ROYAL CANADIAN MINT / 25- GOLD, PLATINE & PALLADIUM COINS and sold by l'Imaginaire, a store and specialised website.