Colchicum autumnale

Colchicum autumnale, commonly known as autumn crocus, meadow saffron or naked lady, is a flower that blooms in the autumn. This plant is native to Great Britain and Ireland, as well as on mainland Europe. Its bright pink, purple or white flowers appear in September and October, after the leaves have died back.

Description

Colchicum autumnale is a perennial plant that grows from a corm. It has a number of strap-shaped, green leaves, up to 25 cm long, that appear in the spring. These die back before the flowers appear. The flowers are borne singly and have six petals each. They are up to 4 cm long and 3 cm broad, with many stamens and three styles. The fruit is a three-parted capsule.

Habitat

Colchicum autumnale is found in damp, open woodlands, meadows and along streamsides. It prefers calcareous soils and can be found at altitudes up to 1,000 metres.

Uses

The corms and seeds of Colchicum autumnale contain colchicine, a toxic alkaloid. It is used in the treatment of gout and Behçet's disease. However, the plant is highly toxic and can cause serious illness or death if ingested.

Cultivation

Colchicum autumnale is cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens for its autumn-blooming flowers. It is hardy and can be grown in most soils, but prefers a well-drained, sunny position.

Conservation

Colchicum autumnale is not currently considered to be at risk. However, its habitat is threatened by changes in land use, particularly the intensification of agriculture and the loss of traditional hay meadows.

See also

• List of poisonous plants
• Colchicine