Colchicum Speciosum

Description

Native to mountainous areas of northern Turkey and other parts of the Caucasus region, this large plant blooms in autumn producing reddish-violet flowers on stems up to twelve inches tall. As with most other varieties, the leaves appear in the spring, before yellowing, withering and dying back as summer progresses. Stronger stemmed, and later than C.autumnale, with taller more richly coloured flowers, it is probably the best of the larger forms, naturalising easily.

Sowing Advice

Sow seeds at any time, covering them very thinly with compost or grit, keeping the seed pot in a cool, well-lit spot outdoors. Artificial heat is not needed and can prevent germination so be very patient as many species will only germinate in the spring after chilling or freezing in the moist seed pot in the winter. Grow on individual seedlings in small pots until of sufficient size to be potted on or planted out into the open ground.

Key Facts