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colchicum

Scientific Name: Colchicum

Family: Liliaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Colchicum: Autumn's Unconventional Bloom

Colchicum is a genus of approximately 160 species of perennial flowering plants, known for their unusual autumn blooms. Often mistaken for crocuses, these plants belong to the lily family (Colchicaceae) and offer a burst of color as other garden inhabitants prepare for winter.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text references "POISON!" in connection with Colchicum autumnale (Meadow Saffron).

Considerations for Children

  • The text references "POISON!" in connection with Colchicum autumnale (Meadow Saffron).

Quirky Facts

  • The common name "naked ladies" refers to the flowers emerging without leaves.
  • The genus name Colchicum is derived from Colchis, a region on the Black Sea in Georgia, where the plant is said to have originated.
  • One historical name is Filis ante Patrem (&#39&#39the son before the father&#39&#39), referencing the unusual bloom time before leaves appear.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Colchicum
  • Common Names: Autumn crocus, meadow saffron, naked ladies, naked boy, son-before-the-father.
  • Family: Colchicaceae (Lily family)
  • Note: Despite the common name "autumn crocus," Colchicum is not a true crocus.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Colchicum species are found in Europe, North Africa, West and Central Asia, and North India.
  • They typically grow in alpine and subalpine meadows and hillsides.
  • Colchicum autumnale is common in England and grows in meadows and low, rich soils in many parts of Europe.
  • Colchicum colchicum grows in the south-west Caucasus Mountains, inland from the eastern coast of the Black Sea.
  • Colchicum macrophyllum is from Crete, Rhodes and SW Turkey, where it resides in rocky terrain, often close to woodland and scrub.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Colchicum species are perennial plants growing from bulb-like corms.
  • They typically reach a height of about 0.2 meters (8 inches).
  • Flowers resemble crocuses and come in shades of lilac, blue, pink and white.
  • Colchicum speciosum features large, striking flower heads, white at the base leading to pale pink at the apex.
  • Colchicum agrippinum has star shaped medium sized flowers amethyst violet, heavily chequered with white on very short .
  • The flowers emerge in autumn, often without leaves, hence the common name "naked ladies."
  • Leaves appear later, typically during the winter or spring.
  • 'Waterlily' Colchicum produces several double, lilac-pink flowers with a silky texture.

Cultivation

  • Colchicum are generally easy to grow in good, deep, moisture-retentive, and well-drained soil.
  • They prefer full sun or light shade.
  • Plant corms in late summer or early autumn, approximately 10cm (4 inches) deep.
  • Colchicum autumnale naturalizes well in grass.
  • These plants are hardy and adaptable, thriving in regions with distinct seasons.

Further Information

  • The RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) offers information on Colchicum autumnale.
  • The Lloyd Library and Museum has historical resources on Colchicum autumnale.