Contents
Description
Colchicum Bulbocodium, also known as the Spring Meadow Saffron, is a perennial plant native to Europe and Asia. The plant belongs to the Colchicaceae family and is known for its beautiful, crocus-like flowers that bloom in the early spring. The flowers are usually pink or lilac in color, and have six petals that open up to reveal a yellow center. The plant is commonly used in gardens and landscapes due to its unique and attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Colchicaceae |
| Genus | Colchicum |
Appearance
Colchicum Bulbocodium grows up to 10-15 cm tall and has a bulbous root that is covered with brownish scales. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, about 8-15 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The flowers are borne singly, on a slender stem that arises directly from the bulb. Each flower measures about 4-6 cm across and has six petals that are pink or lilac in color. The flowers appear in early spring, before the leaves, and are followed by the growth of the leaves.
Care Guide
Colchicum Bulbocodium requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering during the growing season. However, the plant should be kept dry during the dormant period. Fertilizers can be applied in early spring and again after the flowering period. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Colchicum Bulbocodium is generally pest-free, but it can be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and die. The plant can also be affected by viruses, which can cause stunted growth and distorted flowers. To prevent diseases, it is important to keep the plant clean and dry and to remove any infected parts immediately.
Habitat
Colchicum Bulbocodium is found in meadows, woodlands, and rocky slopes in Europe and Asia. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The plant is also commonly found in gardens and landscapes due to its unique and attractive appearance.
Question and Answer
Q: When do the flowers of Colchicum Bulbocodium bloom?
A: The flowers usually bloom in early spring, before the leaves.Q: How tall does Colchicum Bulbocodium grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 10-15 cm tall.Q: What kind of soil does Colchicum Bulbocodium require?
A: The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Q: Is Colchicum Bulbocodium affected by pests and diseases?
A: The plant is generally pest-free, but can be affected by fungal diseases and viruses.
Related Plants
- Colchicum autumnale
- Colchicum speciosum
- Colchicum luteum
- Colchicum cilicicum
References
- “Colchicum Bulbocodium”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 September 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b382
- “Colchicum Bulbocodium”. Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 22 September 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/11380/Colchicum-bulbocodium/Details
- “Colchicum Bulbocodium”. Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed 22 September 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/colchicum-bulbocodium
