Colchicum lusitanum Brot.

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Autumn Crocus

Taxonomy:

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Phylum: Angiosperms
  • Class: Eudicots
  • Order: Liliales
  • Family: Colchicaceae
  • Genus: Colchicum
  • Species: Colchicum lusitanum

Common Names:

  • English: Autumn Crocus, Meadow Saffron
  • Portuguese: Açafrão-da-Terra
  • Spanish: Azafrán de Prado

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Description: Colchicum lusitanum, commonly known as Autumn Crocus, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Colchicum genus. It typically blooms in the autumn, producing showy flowers characterized by six purple to pink petals arranged in a star-like shape. The flowers emerge directly from the ground without any visible leaves, adding to their unique appearance. The plant’s foliage usually emerges in the spring and dies back in the summer, leaving only the flowers in the fall.

Known Range: Colchicum lusitanum is native to regions of Southern Europe, particularly Portugal and Spain, where it can be found growing in meadows, grasslands, and open woodland areas. It has also been naturalized in other parts of Europe and is cultivated in gardens for its ornamental value.

Care Requirements:

  • Sunlight: Autumn Crocus prefers full sun to partial shade.
  • Soil: Well-draining soil is essential to prevent waterlogging, as excessive moisture can cause bulbs to rot. A sandy or loamy soil mixture is ideal.
  • Watering: Water moderately during the growing season, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering after flowering to allow the bulbs to enter dormancy.
  • Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring when foliage emerges to support healthy growth and flower production.
  • Mulching: Mulch around the base of the plants to conserve moisture and suppress weed growth.
  • Division: Every few years, divide clumps of bulbs to prevent overcrowding and improve flowering.
  • Pests and Diseases: Autumn Crocus is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but may be susceptible to bulb rot if planted in poorly draining soil. Keep an eye out for signs of rot and promptly remove affected bulbs.
Colchicum autumnale Autumn crocus

Note: While Autumn Crocus is prized for its beautiful autumn blooms, it’s important to note that all parts of the plant, especially the bulbs, contain colchicine, a toxic compound that can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms if ingested. Exercise caution when handling the plant, and keep it out of reach of children and pets.


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