Colchicum
- Autumn Crocus,
Meadow Saffron.
Hardy bulb.
The type is Colchicum autumnale, which is about
eight inches high, and has flowers of a very beautiful
rosy-purple or lilac-rose (this shade is really
distinct from all others, and comparisons are
of little use).
It throws up its blooms in September,
without an atom of foliage (hence the name “Naked
Boys” in some counties); the flowers are
like the spring crocus, but taller and more slender.
The leaves appear in March, dark stout foliage
which must be allowed to mature and decay without
interference. The bulbs, which are large, should
be planted in groups or patches five inches deep
and four apart in July or August; they may remain
undisturbed for many years.
Besides the common
Colchicum autumnale, there is Colchicum album,
a beautiful white variety; and maximum plenum
(double) and speciosum may be grown by any one
who has space and interest for the tribe.
See Also: Autumn
Crocus
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