Colchicum autumnale

The Autumn Jewel in Your Garden

Colchicum autumnale, often known as autumn crocus or meadow saffron, is a stunning addition to any garden. Despite the common name, this plant is not a crocus at all, although the flowers bear a striking resemblance. These beauties belong to the lily family (Liliaceae), while true crocuses are part of the iris family (Iridaceae). This distinction is just one of many interesting facts about Colchicum autumnale. In this article, we’ll explore how to grow and care for them, their propagation, and other intriguing details.

When Does Colchicum autumnale Flower?

As the name suggests, Colchicum autumnale graces the garden with its blooms in the autumn, typically from late August through to October. The flowers emerge without leaves in what seems like an almost magical appearance from the soil, standing proudly in soft shades of pink, lavender, and white. The foliage of the plant, however, appears earlier in the year, during spring and early summer, and dies back long before the flowers emerge.

This unusual pattern—foliage in spring and flowers in autumn—adds to the allure and mystery of the plant. The flowers can last several weeks, depending on weather conditions, offering late-season interest in your garden.

Not a Crocus, but a Cousin

Though Colchicum autumnale is often called autumn crocus, it is crucial to understand that it’s not related to the true crocus, which blooms in spring or early autumn. The resemblance is mainly in the flower’s shape and form. The two plants, however, differ in their biological families and in the number of stamens they have. Colchicum flowers have six stamens, while crocuses have only three. Additionally, Colchicum flowers emerge from corms, similar to crocuses, but the plant structure and growth cycle are unique.

One important difference is that Colchicum autumnale is highly toxic, unlike the edible saffron crocus (Crocus sativus), from which saffron spice is harvested. All parts of the plant, especially the bulbs and seeds, contain colchicine, a potent toxin that can cause serious illness if ingested, making it essential to handle the plant with care, especially if children or pets are around.

How to Grow and Care for Colchicum autumnale

Colchicum autumnale is relatively easy to grow and provides a valuable late-season display. Here are some tips to ensure success:

1. Planting Location

These plants prefer a well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Planting them in dappled shade under trees or in rock gardens is ideal. The soil should be moderately fertile but not overly rich, as this can lead to poor flowering.

2. Planting Depth and Timing

The corms should be planted about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) deep and spaced approximately 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) apart. The best time to plant is in late summer or early autumn, just before the flowers are due to emerge. Once planted, the corms will settle in and can bloom for many years without needing to be disturbed.

3. Watering

These plants are drought-tolerant once established, but they benefit from some water during dry spells in spring when the leaves are active. However, they do not like overly wet conditions, especially in winter, as this can lead to rot.

4. Mulching and Maintenance

A light mulch of organic material around the plants can help conserve moisture and suppress weeds, but be careful not to cover the flowers. In spring, once the foliage appears, the plant should be left to photosynthesize fully so that the corm can store enough energy for the following year.

5. Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Colchicum plants are generally pest-free, but they can be affected by slugs and snails, especially when young. They also prefer not to have wet feet in winter, so ensure proper drainage to avoid fungal issues.

Propagation

Propagation of Colchicum autumnale is typically done by lifting and dividing the corms. Here’s how to do it:

1. Timing: The best time to propagate is in the summer, after the foliage has died down but before the flowers appear.
2. Process: Carefully dig up the clump of corms, and separate them. Each new corm should have some roots attached. Replant the new corms immediately at the same depth as the parent plants.
3. Cormlets: Some varieties produce smaller cormlets around the main corm. These can also be detached and replanted, though they may take a couple of years to reach flowering size.

Propagation from seed is also possible but much slower. Seeds should be sown in autumn, and they can take several years to develop into flowering plants.

Interesting Facts about Colchicum autumnale

• Medicinal History: Historically, the plant has been used medicinally, thanks to its content of colchicine, a chemical used to treat gout. However, because of its toxicity, it is not recommended for home medicinal use.
• Wildflower Heritage: In some parts of Europe, especially the UK, Colchicum autumnale can be found growing wild in meadows and woodland edges. It has been listed as a protected species in certain areas due to habitat loss.
• Naturalising: When planted in favourable conditions, Colchicum autumnale can naturalise and spread, creating beautiful drifts of autumn color. Once established, it requires very little care, making it an excellent low-maintenance option for perennial borders.

Colchicum autumnale is a beautiful and unique addition to any garden, particularly if you’re looking to extend the flowering season into autumn. Its unusual lifecycle—leaves in spring, flowers in autumn—makes it a conversation piece among gardeners, and its low-maintenance nature makes it an easy plant to grow. Just remember, although it may look like a crocus, it’s a different plant entirely, with its own set of care requirements and considerations. By planting Colchicum autumnale, you’re sure to enjoy vibrant colour when many other flowers have faded, adding a touch of autumn magic to your garden.