Bulbs

Colchicum
autumn crocus

- Height 6-16 in (15-40 cm)
- Planting distance 6-9 in (15-23 cm)
- Flowers early to late fall
- Well-drained soil
- Sunny or partially shaded site
- Corms available mid- and late summer
- Hardy zones 4-8

Despite their name, do not confuse these flowers with genuine crocuses. Colchicums are renowned for the lovely colors add to the garden in fall - muted lilacs, purples, and pinks, which seem to blend perfectly with fallen leaves covering the ground. An ideal site is among tall grass, which supports the 6-8 in (15-20 cm) high leafless stems during flowering time and hides the mass of untidy leaves in spring. All colchicums are hardy, so they can be left in the ground undisturbed for years.

Popular species and cultivars
Colchicum autumnale has lilac-pink goblet-shaped flowers that appear in early fall and midfall. The stems are particularly fragile, so ideally this species should be grown in rough grass, which can be left uncut in spring and fall. Plant 4 in (10 cm) deep and 8 in (20 cm) apart. A double-flowered white form, 'Album,' are also available. Colchicum speciosum has flowers in varying shades of purple and appears from early to late fall. It is a more robust species than C. autumnale, with a stronger stem, so it can be grown in a shrub border where the 16 in (40 cm) high leaves that appear in spring won't smother other plants. Plant in a group of at least 10 corms in dappled shade. Set them 4 in (10 cm) deep and 6 in (15 cm) apart. Cultivars include 'Album,' a pure white form. Dutch hybrids have stronger-colored flowers, arriving in early and late fall. They are more robust and easier to grow. Popular cultivars are 'The Giant' (rosy lilac), 'Lilac Wonder' (lilac-rose), and 'Waterlily' (purple with double flowers).

Bulbs