Autumn Crocus / Meadow Saffron

A bulbous perennial in the Colchicaceae family, native from Europe to North Africa. Resembles saffron (Iridaceae) but belongs to a different family. Pale-purple crocus-like flowers emerge directly from the ground in autumn without leaves — hence 'autumn crocus'. Leaves and fruit appear in spring, an unusual life cycle. All parts, especially the corm and seeds, contain the powerful toxin colchicine; fatal poisonings are frequently reported. Yet colchicine is also used medically to treat gout and is famous as a chromosome-doubling agent.

Identification Points

• ✓Pale-purple crocus-like flowers emerging from bare ground in autumn
• ✓6 tepals; slender flower stalks 10–30 cm
• ✓Broad leaves and capsules appearing in spring

Morphological TraitsAI-estimated, needs verification

Phylogenetic Positionイヌサフラン科 →