code: 707
It is very easy in cultivation with narrow short leaves
Family: Colchicaceae
Common name: Autumn Crocus, Naked Lady, Meadow Saffron
Plant Classification: Hardy bulb Hardy perennial
Maximum Height: 15 cm
Native to only a few high mountain meadows on the island of Corsica, this plant has both pink and white flowered forms in the wild,often divided equally between the two colours. It is very easy in cultivation with narrow short leaves and miniature mid to deep pink flowers which grow in compact clusters very early on in the autumn. They are equally at home whether in the ground or a container. These seeds were grown in cultivation in the UK.
Sowing advice:
Sow seeds at any time covering them with compost or grit 5mm deep, keeping the seed pot in a cool, well-lit spot outdoors. Artificial heat is not needed and can prevent germination so be very patient as many species will only germinate in the spring after chilling or freezing in the moist seed tray in the winter. Grow on individual seedlings in small pots until of sufficient size to be potted on or planted out into the open ground.
Medicinal uses:
Plants in this genus contain toxic amounts of the alkaloid colchicine which is used pharmaceutically to treat gout and Familial Mediterranean fever. The use of the roots and seeds in traditional medicine is thought to have arisen due to the presence of this drug.
