Meadow Saffron

Colchicum Speciosum

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Overview

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum speciosum) is a striking fall-blooming perennial, showcasing vibrant, purple-pink, goblet-shaped flowers up to 6 inches tall, appearing before its strappy green leaves in spring. Thriving in USDA zones 4-8, it requires moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Caution: all plant parts are toxic. Its autumnal blooms add a unique splash of late-season color, ideal for naturalizing in grassy areas or planting in borders and rock gardens.

Sun Full, HalfWater MediumZones 3–8Climate Mediterranean

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — Meadow Saffron (Colchicum speciosum) is a striking fall-blooming perennial

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — ideal for naturalizing in grassy areas or planting in borders and rock gardens

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — A member of the Colchicaceae family

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — goblet-shaped flowers up to 6 inches tall

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — Meadow Saffron (Colchicum speciosum) is a striking fall-blooming perennial

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — Caution: all plant parts are toxic

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — appearing before its strappy green leaves in spring

Culture

Sun: Full, Half
Water: Medium
USDA zones: 3–8

Shape & size

Mature height: 0.5–0.75 Ft.
Mature width: 0.5–0.75 Ft.

Classification

Family: Iridaceae
Climate: Mediterranean

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Photos (148)

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — Its autumnal blooms add a unique splash of late-season color

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — ideal for naturalizing in grassy areas or planting in borders and rock gardens

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — A member of the Colchicaceae family

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — goblet-shaped flowers up to 6 inches tall

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — Meadow Saffron (Colchicum speciosum) is a striking fall-blooming perennial

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — Caution: all plant parts are toxic

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — appearing before its strappy green leaves in spring

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — Thriving in USDA zones 4-8, it requires moist, well-drained soil and partial shade

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8 and performs best in full sun to partial shade

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — this captivating plant is commonly known for its crocus-like flowers that emerge in fall

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — while its foliage appears in spring

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — only to die back before the flowering season.<br><br>Growing to a height of about 6 to 10 inches

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — This makes it perfect for garden borders or naturalizing in grassy areas

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — cup-shaped flowers can reach up to 4 inches in height

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — presenting a bold statement in the fall garden

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — the Meadow Saffron appreciates well-drained

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — with a spread of roughly 3 to 6 inches

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — fertile soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — when most other plants are fading

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — When incorporating Meadow Saffron in a landscape design, consider planting in clusters for maximum impact

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — offering a delightful surprise when much of the landscape is preparing for the quiet of winter

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — ensure adequate moisture during the growing season

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — especially during dry spells

Meadow Saffron (Colchicum Speciosum) — However, avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to bulb rot

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