Crocus-like bulb that throws up leafless pale lilac-pink goblet flowers from bare ground in late summer and early autumn. Strap-like leaves follow in spring.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 4–9 | −34.4 °C to −1.1 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H7 | down to −20 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 4–8 | −29 °C to −1 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 1–4 | −15 °C to 5 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Flowers September–October — a textbook autumn equinox marker, often appearing within a week of the equinox itself
- WARNING: All parts highly toxic — contain colchicine, a potent cytotoxin; do not confuse with edible saffron crocus (Crocus sativus, in the database), the bulbs and leaves of which have caused fatal poisonings when mistaken for wild garlic
- Not a true crocus — in the Colchicaceae rather than the Iridaceae
- Leaves appear in spring, die away by midsummer
Pet caution: Autumn crocus (Meadow saffron) is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.
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Related plants
Cross-check Autumn crocus (Meadow saffron) against your zones