Colchicum alpinum (alpine meadow saffron) — Clump forming

Overview

Colchicum alpinum is a clump forming bulbs in the genus Colchicum, part of the Colchicaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Colchicum alpinum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens, wildflower meadow, rock garden, underplanting of roses and shrubs and flower borders and beds.

About

Colchicum alpinum, the alpine autumn crocus, is a corm-forming perennial with pale, delicate rosy-purple flowers, similar to C. autumnale but smaller. It is native to the Alps and the Appennini of Italy, Switzerland, France and Sicily, and cultivated as an ornamental in other regions. Grow it in full sun and partial shade and most soil types. In UK gardens it is hardy in most of the UK (RHS H5). It works well for cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens, wildflower meadow, rock garden, underplanting of roses and shrubs and flower borders and beds. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained conditions and south-facing, east-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant at appropriate depth in well-drained soil.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Colchicum alpinum

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Colchicum

Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Colchicum alpinum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Bulbs
Habit: Clump forming
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow, Rock garden, Underplanting of roses and shrubs, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Colchicum alpinum

Propagation: Seed, separate corms when dormant in summer
Pest resistance: Susceptible to slugs
Disease resistance: Susceptible to bulb grey moulds

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Colchicum alpinum?

Colchicum alpinum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Colchicum alpinum need?

Colchicum alpinum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.