| Colchicum speciosum | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Monocots |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Colchicaceae |
| Genus: | Colchicum |
| Species: | C. speciosum |
| Binomial name | |
| Colchicum speciosum Steven |
|
Colchicum speciosum (syn. C. giganteum) [1] is native to mountainous areas of northern Turkey and other parts of the Caucasus region. Colchicum bornmuelleri was once considered an independent species, but has now been included with Colchicum speciosum as Colchicum speciosum var. bornmuelleri, with a white centre. [2] [3]
Colchicum speciosum blooms in the fall, producing reddish/violet flowers on stems up to 30 centimetres (12 in) tall without any leaves present. The leaves grow in the spring, then yellow, wither and die back as summer progresses.
This plant is a vigorous grower and does well in full sun to part shade locations and well-drained soils in most climates. Cultivars include the white 'Album'.