Colchicum byzantinum (Meadow Saffron)

Award-winning Colchicum byzantinum is an early fall-blooming Colchicum which bears up to 20 small, funnel-shaped, soft lilac flowers, 4-6 in. long (10-15 cm), with a prominent central white stripe. Appearing long before the leaves, they are borne on white stems. This perennial makes a truly unique display in the fall garden. Resembling crocuses, it produces its 5-6 broad, ribbed, dark green leaves, way later, in spring. Ridiculously easy to grow, all parts of this plant are poisonous, therefore it is diligently ignored by hungry deer, rabbits, and other critters.

• Growing up to 6-8 inches tall and wide (15-20 cm), this Colchicum naturalizes easily and will come back year after year!
• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding qualities
• Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun or part shade.
• Stunning in front of shrubs, among low-growing perennials, woodlands, meadows, around patios or along walkways. 
• Generally disease free. Watch for slugs.
• To be planted 8 in. deep (20 cm) and 8 in. apart (20 cm) in very early fall.
• Propagate by seed, sowing in containers in an open frame when ripe or separate corms when dormant in summer.
• All parts are highly toxic by ingestion. Wear gloves and wash hands after handling.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses, toxic to humans.
• Colchicum byzantinum is generally considered to be native to southeastern Europe, however some authorities believe that it is actually a hybrid of C. cilicicum.