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Colchicum autumnale
Colchicum autumnale
Colchicum autumnale
Colchicum autumnale

Colchicum autumnale

TAXONOMY

FamilyColchicaceae
GenusColchicum
Zone4

ABOUT

Colchicum autumnale, commonly known as autumn crocus or meadow saffron, is a tuberous geophyte native to Europe. It belongs to the family Colchicaceae and the genus Colchicum. This plant is known for its beautiful, crocus-like flowers that bloom in the fall. It prefers temperate climates and has a dormancy period during the summer.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Autumn Crocus
Bulbocodium Antumnale
Bulbocodium autumnale
Colchicum autumnale f. bulgaricum
Colchicum autumnale f. macropetala
Colchicum autumnale f. milosi
Colchicum autumnale f. pannonicum
Colchicum autumnale f. radei
Colchicum autumnale f. transsilvanicum
Colchicum autumnale subsp. pannonicum
Colchicum autumnale subsp. vernum
Colchicum autumnale var. bulgaricum
Colchicum autumnale var. elatius
Colchicum autumnale var. pannonicum
Colchicum autumnale var. speciosissimum
Colchicum autumnale var. transsilvanicum
Colchicum autumnale var. vernale
Colchicum autumnale var. vernum
Colchicum autumnale var. viridiflorum
Colchicum borisii
Colchicum bulgaricum
Colchicum commune
Colchicum crociflorum
Colchicum doerfleri var. orientale
Colchicum drenowskii
Colchicum orientale
Colchicum pannonicum
Colchicum polyanthon
Colchicum praecox
Colchicum rhodopaeum
Colchicum transsilvanicum
Colchicum turcicum subsp. pannonicum
Colchicum vernale
Colchicum vernum
Colchicum vranjanum

OVERVIEW

WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature15° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

DETAILS

Care Instructions
Colchicum autumnale requires indirect bright light and moderate temperatures. It thrives in environments with moderate humidity. Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. This plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors, making it versatile for different settings.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining loam soil. Ensure the soil mix is rich in organic matter to provide moderate nutrient concentration. Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant during its growing season, typically in the spring and early summer, to support healthy growth and flowering.
Repotting
Repot Colchicum autumnale every 2-3 years or when the tubers outgrow their container. Repotting is best done in the late summer or early fall before the plant begins its active growth phase. Use fresh, well-draining soil and a slightly larger pot.
Propagation
Propagate Colchicum autumnale by dividing the tubers during the dormancy period in the summer. Carefully separate the tubers and plant them in individual pots or directly in the garden. Ensure they are planted at the correct depth and water sparingly until new growth appears.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for Colchicum autumnale. However, you can remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and health.
Toxicity
Colchicum autumnale is highly toxic to both pets and humans. All parts of the plant contain colchicine, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, organ failure, and even death if ingested. Handle the plant with care and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
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How To Grow Colchicum autumnale | EarthOne