The fall crocus , ordinarily touch to as “ Autumn Crocus ” in the US , is really not a true crocus at all . It belong to the Colchicum genus , which consists of species or hybrids of evenfall - flowering bulb in the lily family , also known as Lilaceae . These plants are sometimes called meadow saffron , naked ma’am , or colchicum .

I have had the pleasance of come across these beautiful flowers in my own garden , and they never break to entrance me with their arresting showing . Despite their name , fall crocuses bloom in the fall , usually in September or October , providing a burst of color and beauty as summertime transition into winter .

One interesting fact about autumn crocuses is that they lack straight parting . alternatively , their flower emerge directly from the basis , giving them a unique and oculus - catch show . This feature is why they are sometimes called “ defenseless ladies . ” The absence of leaf during blossoming also sets them asunder from unfeigned crocuses , which typically have leaves present at the meter of bloom .

The flowers of autumn crocuses come up in a variety of colors , admit shades of pink , over-embellished , and white . They often have six petal coiffure in a loving cup - like shape , which adds to their charm and elegance . These flower can be quite orotund , with some reaching up to six inches in diameter . Their size and vibrant coloring material make them a standout in any garden or landscape painting .

fall crocuses are cognise for their ability to naturalize and manifold over time . Once establish in a favourable location , they can propagate and form beautiful thump or drift of bloom . This trait makes them a popular choice for naturalistic planting or area where you want to make a carpet of color .

When it hail to rise fall crocus , they opt well - drain soil and a gay or partially shaded location . They can be planted in the fall , around the same clip as other fall - blooming bulbs like tulips or Narcissus pseudonarcissus . It ’s important to plant them at the correct depth , typically around 4 to 6 inches abstruse , to ensure they have the correct amount of moisture and insulation during the winter months .

One matter to note about fall crocus is that all part of the plant , admit the bulbs , contain a toxic chemical compound called colchicine . This compound can cause knockout GI symptoms if ingested , so it ’s significant to manage the bulbs with tending and keep them out of reach of kid and pet .

In terms of maintenance , fall crocuses are relatively low - upkeep plants . They are in general resistant to pests and disease , and their foliage naturally dies back after flowering . However , it ’s a good thought to mulch the surface area around the bulbs in late fall to cater some protection during the wintertime month .

The fall crocus , or Colchicum , is a stunning fall - flowering lightbulb that adds mantrap and color to gardens and landscapes in the US . Despite not being a true crocus , it shares some law of similarity in appearance and flower time . With their unique naked bloom and ability to naturalize , autumn crocus are a delightful addition to any garden . Just recollect to handle them with caution due to their toxic nature .

Caroline Bates