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autumn crocus

Scientific Name: Colchicum autumnale

Family: Liliaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale)

The plant commonly referred to as Autumn Crocus, Meadow Saffron, or Naked Lady is Colchicum autumnale. It is admired for its autumn blooms which resemble those of true crocuses.

Considerations for Pets

  • The Autumn Crocus is noted as poisonous to both dogs and cats.

Considerations for Children

  • All parts of the plant are noted as hazardous, especially the bulb.

Common Names

  • Autumn Crocus
  • Meadow Saffron
  • Naked Lady
  • Naked Boy
  • Son-Before-The-Father

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Colchicum autumnale
  • Family: Colchicaceae
  • Synonyms: The text does not provide specific synonyms but notes the potential confusion with true crocuses (Crocus spp.)

Distribution and Habitat

  • The plant is native to Eurasia and North Africa.
  • It is mentioned as an occasional escapee in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Colchicum autumnale is a cormous herbaceous perennial, growing up to 15cm tall.
  • It features erect, strap-shaped leaves reaching up to 30cm in length.
  • In autumn, it produces up to 6 crocus-like flowers.

Ecological Role

  • In parts of its European range, the Autumn Crocus is a protected plant.

Historical Usage

  • The text mentions that the plant has a history of use.
  • Scientists are exploring ways to harness its healing power, potentially for cancer treatments.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The text mentions instances of Autumn Crocus poisoning in cattle.

Quirky Facts

  • The common name "naked ladies" refers to the fact that the flowers appear without surrounding leaves.
  • The plant's blooming time can cause confusion with early crocuses, as one flowers in autumn and the other in early spring.

Further Information

  • The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) provides information on Crocus speciosus.
  • WebMD offers patient medical information on Autumn Crocus.
  • Habitat Aid sells Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale) online.