Colchicum autumnale aka Autumn Crocus
Taxonomy
Colchicum autumnale, also known as autumn crocus, meadow saffron, or naked ladies, is a toxic autumn-blooming plant that resembles true crocuses but belongs to the Colchicaceae family, unlike the crocuses that belong to the Iridaceae family. The name "naked ladies" refers to the flowers emerging before the leaves. Despite being called "meadow saffron," this plant is not the source of saffron, which is obtained from the saffron crocus. It is cultivated as an ornamental despite its toxicity. One popular cultivar, 'Nancy Lindsay,' has received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. 'Nancy Lindsay' is a small perennial with corms, growing up to 15cm in height. It produces up to 5 deep mauve-pink flowers, each measuring 5cm across, with faint netting on the outside of the tepals.
Common names
Autumn Crocus, Colchicum, Meadow Saffron, Naked LadiesHow to care for Autumn Crocus
Difficulty
Autumn Crocus is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Water
Autumn Crocus should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Autumn Crocus loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Autumn Crocus prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Autumn Crocus to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
Toxicity
Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
Fertilizer
The Autumn Crocus should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.
Region of origin
Autumn Crocus’s native range is Central and southeastern Europe, including Britain, from Denmark to Spain, east to Macedonia.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Colchicum Genus
Colchicum bulbocodium Autumn Crocus, Meadow Saffron, Naked Lady Or Colchicum
Colchicum bivonae
Colchicum cupanii Mediterranean Meadow Saffron
Colchicum alpinum Colchicum Alpinum
Colchicum autumnale Autumn Crocus
Colchicum filifolium Colchicum Filifolium
