COLCHICUM

A genus of about 45 species of mostly Autumn flowering bulbs. The greatest concentration of species is to be found in Turkey and The Balkans. Their irregular shaped, bulb-like corms are covered with a thin brown skin and the autumn flowered species produce their flowers before the leaves, so care and thought must be given to allow enough room for the leaf development. Even though their flowers look like crocus they are not closely related. Despite commonly being called “Autumn Crocus” there are some species in the genus that bloom in the spring. Ideal for the rockery, allowing room for the foliage, or as an edging plant in well drained loamy soil that at least gets morning sun. A small amount of complete fertiliser and a hand full of lime worked into the soil at planting time. Best left undisturbed for several years.

Available January to March