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BulbsHerbaceous Perennial

Colchicum bulbocodium
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

spring meadow saffron

A spring-flowering bulb with clusters of pink-lilac flowers with narrow petals. The green, strap-like leaves to 20cm long emerge later and die back in summer

Other common names
vernal bulbocodium
Synonyms
Bulbocodium vernum
Merendera bulbocodium misapplied
see moreColchicum vernum
Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0–0.1 metre
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Purple Pink Green
Summer Green
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Colchicaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Tufted
Potentially harmful
TOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus

Colchicum are cormous perennials with usually coarse, broadly strap-shaped leaves which appear with or after the goblet-shaped flowers

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in good light in any moist but well-drained soil.

Propagation

Propagate from seed or division

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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