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Description
Colchicum Autumnale Nancy Lindsay, also known as autumn crocus, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Colchicaceae family. It is native to Europe and southwestern Asia and is known for its vibrant purple flowers that bloom in the autumn. The plant grows up to 6 inches tall and has narrow leaves that are about 12 inches long. The flowers are funnel-shaped and have six petals that are purple with white stripes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Colchicaceae |
| Genus | Colchicum |
Appearance
Colchicum Autumnale Nancy Lindsay has narrow leaves that are about 12 inches long and grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are dark green and have a smooth texture. The flowers grow on tall stalks that are about 6 inches tall and are funnel-shaped with six petals that are purple with white stripes. The flowers bloom in the autumn and are often mistaken for crocuses. The plant produces small bulbs that are about 2 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
To care for Colchicum Autumnale Nancy Lindsay, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. During the growing season, the plant should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Colchicum Autumnale Nancy Lindsay is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and fungal infections. To prevent pest infestations, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and to remove any dead foliage. If the plant does become infested with pests, it can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent fungal infections, it is important to avoid overwatering and to provide the plant with good air circulation.
Habitat
Colchicum Autumnale Nancy Lindsay is native to Europe and southwestern Asia and can be found growing in meadows, woodlands, and along roadsides. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Colchicum Autumnale Nancy Lindsay toxic?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Q: Can I plant Colchicum Autumnale Nancy Lindsay in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and receives regular watering.
Q: How long do the flowers of Colchicum Autumnale Nancy Lindsay last?
A: The flowers typically last for 2-3 weeks.
Q: Does Colchicum Autumnale Nancy Lindsay require a dormant period?
A: Yes, the plant goes dormant in the summer and should be allowed to rest for several months.
Related Plants
- Colchicum autumnale
- Colchicum speciosum
- Colchicum × agrippinum
References
- “Colchicum autumnale.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 29 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e366>.
- “Colchicum autumnale.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 29 May 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12558/Colchicum-autumnale/Details>.
- “Colchicum autumnale (Autumn crocus).” Plants for a Future. Accessed 29 May 2021. <https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Colchicum+autumnale>.
