When does Colchicum alpinum bloom?
Colchicum alpinum typically blooms in autumn, with the flowers appearing before the leaves.
Alpine Autumn Crocus (Colchicum alpinum)
Colchicum alpinum is a small, cormous perennial native to European mountains, producing delicate, goblet-shaped flowers in autumn.
Above information is sourced from Wikipedia
Sunlight
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Afternoon shade is beneficial in hot climates.
Watering
Water moderately during active growth (spring/autumn), allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce significantly during summer dormancy.
Soil
Requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or gritty. A mix suitable for alpine plants or bulbs, with good aeration, is ideal.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures during growth. Tolerates light frost.
Habitat
Outdoor, Greenhouse
Fertilizer
Feed sparingly in spring with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Care Requirements
Light
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Afternoon shade is beneficial in hot climates.
Water
Water moderately during active growth (spring/autumn), allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce significantly during summer dormancy.
Soil
Requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or gritty. A mix suitable for alpine plants or bulbs, with good aeration, is ideal.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures during growth. Tolerates light frost.
Ideal growing range: 10-18 °C
Habitat
Outdoor, Greenhouse
Fertilizer
Feed sparingly in spring with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Plant Overview
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Category
Flowering, Ornamental
Plant Place Type
Ground, Garden, Pot
Plant Environment
Outdoor, Greenhouse
Lifespan
Perennials
Plant Height
0.1-0.2 m
Spread
0.1 m
Growth Rate
Slow
Dormancy
Summer
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Basal, linear
Flower Size
3-4 cm
Image Gallery
Flowering & Fruiting Cycles
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Northern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · OctPeak fruit · Nov
FloweringFruiting
Southern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · SepPeak fruit · Dec
FloweringFruiting
Synonyms
Colchicum merenderoides E.P.Perrier & Songeon
Colchicum parvulum Ten.
Colchicum pseudoparvulum Lojac.
Taxonomy
- kingdomPlantae
- divisionTracheophyta
- classLiliopsida
- orderLiliales
- familyColchicaceae
- genusColchicum
- speciesColchicum alpinum
Toxicity
Toxic for humans
Yes
Rating: 8/5
Toxic for pets
Yes
Rating: 8/5
Edible
No
Additional Care Tips
Water moderately during the growing season (spring and autumn). Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering during summer dormancy.
No pruning is typically required. Remove dead or yellowing foliage only after it has completely died back naturally in late spring or early summer to allow the plant to store energy.
Propagate by separating offsets (cormels) from the parent corm during dormancy. Sow fresh seeds in autumn in a cold frame, though flowering may take several years.
Repot container-grown plants every 2-3 years during summer dormancy. Use fresh, well-draining compost. This is also an opportunity to check the corms for health and divide any clumps.
FAQs
Is Colchicum alpinum poisonous?
Yes, all parts of Colchicum alpinum are toxic to pets and humans, containing colchicine. Handle with care and keep away from children and animals.
What kind of soil does Alpine Autumn Crocus need?
It requires well-drained soil, such as sandy or gritty mixes, to prevent bulb rot. Good aeration is crucial.
Why do the leaves appear in spring after the flowers bloom in autumn?
This is a characteristic growth habit of Colchicum species. The flowers are produced from stored energy in the corm in autumn, and the leaves emerge in spring to photosynthesize and replenish the corm for the next season.
How should I care for Colchicum alpinum during summer?
During summer, the plant enters dormancy and the leaves die back. Reduce watering significantly to prevent the corms from rotting. Ensure the soil remains relatively dry.