Taxonomy:
Common Names by Region:
Description: Colchicum lusitanum, commonly known as Autumn Crocus or Portuguese Meadow Saffron, is a perennial herbaceous plant known for its autumn-flowering habit and saffron-like flowers. It produces large, goblet-shaped flowers with six pointed petals that bloom in shades of purple, lavender, or pink. Each flower emerges directly from the soil without any visible leaves, giving the appearance of flowers sprouting from bare ground, hence the name “naked ladies” sometimes used colloquially. The leaves of Colchicum lusitanum are basal and lance-shaped, appearing after flowering and persisting through the winter into the following spring.
Known Range: Colchicum lusitanum is native to the Iberian Peninsula, particularly Portugal and western Spain. It can be found growing in meadows, grasslands, and open woodland areas. Additionally, it has been introduced and cultivated in gardens and landscapes in other regions with suitable climates.
Care Requirements:
Colchicum lusitanum adds a splash of vibrant color to the autumn garden with its striking flowers. With proper care and attention to its requirements, it can thrive and naturalize, providing years of beauty and interest in the landscape.
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