Family: Colchicaceae
Author: DC.
Bibliography: J.B.A.M.de Lamarck & A.P.de Candolle, Fl. Franç., ed. 3, 3: 195 (1805)
Year: 1805
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Colchicum
Vegetable: False
Observations: SW. Alps, Appennini, Sicilia
Description
The Alpine autumn crocus, scientifically known as Colchicum alpinum, stands as a captivating testament to the beauty and diversity of alpine flora. First described in the early 19th century by noted botanists J.B.A.M. de Lamarck and A.P. de Candolle, this remarkable plant was officially documented in the third edition of “La Flore Françoise” in 1805.
Belonging to the Colchicaceae family, Colchicum alpinum is primarily found in the picturesque regions of the southwestern Alps, the Apennine mountains, and the island of Sicily. Its presence in these varied locales highlights its adaptability and resilience in the often harsh conditions of alpine and Mediterranean environments.
The Alpine autumn crocus is distinguished by its delicate, yet vivid, blossoms that grace the landscape with a burst of color, typically appearing in late summer to autumn. Its flowers, composed of slender petals, exhibit shades ranging from soft mauve to deep purples, serving as a vivid contrast against the rugged terrains where they grow. One of the unique features of this species is its bloom time; unlike many crocuses that herald the onset of spring, the Alpine autumn crocus waits until the year’s later months to display its splendor.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Colchicum alpinum also holds ecological significance. As a member of the Colchicaceae family, it shares the family’s characteristic production of colchicine, a compound with notable pharmacological properties, primarily used in the treatment of gout and other medical conditions. However, it’s important to note that colchicine makes the plant toxic if ingested, a fact which both local fauna and knowledgeable foragers wisely respect.
The Alpine autumn crocus contributes not only to the biodiversity and natural beauty of its native regions but also to botanical studies and medicinal research. Its resilience and charm continue to capture the interest of botanists and nature enthusiasts alike, making it a treasured component of the alpine and Mediterranean flora.
Common Names
Swe: alptidlösa
En: Alpine autumn crocus, Alpine Meadow Saffron, Alpine Saffron
Ar: لحلاح ألبي
Cs: Ocún alpský
Nl: Alpentijloos
Fi: Vuorimyrkkylilja, Alppimyrkkylilja
Fr: Colchique des Alpes
De: Alpen-Herbstzeitlose, Alpen-Zeitlose
It: Colchico minore
Sv: Alptidlösa
Synonyms
- Colchicum alpinum subsp. parvulum ((Ten.) Nyman)
- Colchicum vallis-demonis (Lojac.)
- Colchicum alpinum var. merenderoides ((E.P.Perrier & Songeon) Douin)
- Colchicum merenderoides (E.P.Perrier & Songeon)
- Colchicum alpinum var. parvulum ((Ten.) Baker)
- Colchicum pseudoparvulum (Lojac.)
- Colchicum alpinum subsp. merenderoides ((E.P.Perrier & Songeon) Rouy)
Distribution
- France (native)
- Italy (native)
- Sicilia (native)
- Switzerland (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Aug 15, 2022 by godan (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 28, 2021 by Checa Inmaculada (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 21, 2018 by plmilano (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 1, 2022 by Gaetan Ekszterowicz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 1, 2022 by Gaetan Ekszterowicz (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Habit
Taken Aug 15, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 15, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2022 by Tristan Jaton-Maria (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 15, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 9, 2021 by Pascal Ollagnier (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Aug 11, 2019 by Claudio Malpede (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Aug 15, 2005 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)
Taken Jul 15, 2009 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)
Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)
Taken Nov 20, 2020 by Şevkiye (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2739836)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:533221-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Colchicum alpinum DC.)
Specifications
Growth
Ph maximum: 5.0
Ph minimum: 4.5
Light: 8
Atmospheric humidity: 6
Bloom months: [‘aug’, ‘sep’]
Soil nutriments: 3