Thread-leaved Colchicum
colchicum filifolium
Also known as: ["Thread-leaved Meadow Saffron","Fine-leaved Colchicum"]
Overview
A small, bulbous perennial with slender, thread-like leaves and delicate, pinkish-purple flowers that emerge in autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["autumn flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Colchicaceae |
| Genus: | Colchicum |
| Botanical Name: | Colchicum filifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or alpine trough
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent corm rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or as needed to tidy up the plant.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of sunlight per day, adjusting for intensity in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; provide shade during peak summer.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, sparingly in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering during dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers cooler conditions during dormancy.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only during active growth; stop before dormancy begins.
Propagation
Methods
By corm division after dormancy ends (late spring); occasionally by seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate corms carefully.
- Plant at proper depth.
- Water lightly.
- Provide appropriate light and temperature.
Best Time: Late spring, just as new growth emerges after dormancy.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with bright indirect light for seedlings.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not necessary for corm division; optional for seed propagation.
Timeline
Corm division: immediate growth; seed propagation: 1–2 years to flowering.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, well-draining soil, labels.
Quick Tips
Divide corms only when necessary; ensure each division has a growing point; keep seedlings moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flower stems at the base; trim dead foliage carefully.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stems and dead foliage after blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Remove dead flowers; trim yellowing leaves; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late spring, just as growth resumes.
Pot Size
Use a pot one size larger if repotting; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift corms; divide if necessary; replant at proper depth with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot only when corms become crowded or every 2–3 years; best done after dormancy ends.
Checklist
Check for crowded corms; use fresh soil; ensure proper depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at base; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in dormancy.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth (spring) and allow soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering significantly during dormancy (summer and winter).
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or mold in cold, damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below freezing for extended periods.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot in cold, wet soil.
Hot Stress
Can lead to leaf scorch, dehydration, and premature dormancy if exposed to excessive heat without adequate water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity and water more frequently but carefully during hot spells.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during active growth; cease in summer/winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring); avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly susceptible to colchicine toxicity, which can result in severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects. The plant poses a significant risk to feline health.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDogs are highly sensitive to colchicine, which can cause severe poisoning, including gastrointestinal upset and systemic effects. Even small amounts can be dangerous.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicColchicum filifolium contains colchicine, a potent alkaloid that interferes with cell division, leading to severe gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic toxicity. The plant's effects can be life-threatening if ingested in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Colchicum filifolium toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is highly toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: When does Colchicum filifolium bloom?
A: It blooms in autumn, typically September to October.
Q: What are the care requirements for Colchicum filifolium?
A: It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, with minimal watering once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Colchicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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