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BulbsHerbaceous PerennialSynonym

Colchicum giganteum Arn.
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

An autumn-flowering bulb reaching 30cm tall, with clusters of large lilac flowers, without leaves. The leaves are green and broad and grow in spring, quite separate from the flowering season. Suitable for naturalising in grass

Synonyms
Colchicum giganteum Arn.
Colchicum illyricum misapplied
see moreColchicum illyricum superbum
Colchicum speciosum var. illyricum hort.
Colchicum giganteum hort. ex Stef.

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Purple
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 GB / Ireland
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

Accepted

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
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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