Sicilian Meadow Saffron
colchicum cupanii
Also known as: ["Sicilian Colchicum","Cupanii's Colchicum"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its autumn-blooming flowers that resemble crocuses but are botanically distinct.
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 cupanii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or woodland edge
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after foliage dies back.
- Pruning Intensity: Light.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense midday sun; adjust shade levels seasonally.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply but infrequently during active growth; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Hardy in cool climates; tolerates frost; prefers temperatures between 50–70°F (10–21°C) during active growth.
Protect from extreme heat; ensure winter drainage; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop fertilizing during dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of corms after flowering when the plant is dormant.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Dig up corms after foliage dies back.
- Separate small corms from base.
- Replant at 3–4 inch depth.
Best Time: Late summer to early fall, when the plant is dormant and corms are visible.
Environment
Cool, dry conditions during storage; well-drained soil after planting.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix (e.g., cactus mix with added perlite or sand).
Hormone
Not necessary for corm division.
Timeline
Corms can be planted immediately; new growth may appear in fall or the following spring.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, gloves.
Quick Tips
Handle corms gently to avoid damage; store in a cool, dry place if not planting immediately; ensure proper depth when replanting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut foliage back to the base with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead foliage after it yellows and dies back.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Remove dead foliage; clean tools after use; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer to early fall, when the plant is dormant.
Pot Size
No size increase needed unless overcrowding occurs.
Method
Lift corms carefully, divide if necessary, replant at proper depth with fresh soil mix.
Suggestions
Not typically required; corms can be left undisturbed for several years.
Checklist
Check for overcrowding; use well-draining soil; replant at correct depth; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at base; ensure drainage; reduce watering post-flowering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; ensure excess water drains away to prevent rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during dormancy (summer); increase frequency in fall when growth resumes, then reduce again after flowering in spring.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning in excessive heat; stunted growth or rot in cold, wet conditions.
Cold Stress
Can survive freezing temperatures but may suffer if soil remains waterlogged in cold.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; mulch lightly in winter to protect bulbs; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
May go dormant early if exposed to prolonged heat without adequate moisture.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; maintain consistent soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid dormant period.
Fertilizing Method
Apply a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer once in early fall and once in early spring; dilute to half strength.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicColchicum cupanii is toxic to cats due to its colchicine content, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, systemic toxicity, and organ damage. Cats are particularly sensitive to colchicine poisoning.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe colchicine in Colchicum cupanii is highly toxic to dogs, causing severe gastrointestinal upset, systemic toxicity, and potential organ damage. Even small ingestions can be dangerous.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicColchicum cupanii contains colchicine, a potent alkaloid that interferes with cell division and can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, organ damage, and potentially fatal poisoning. The effects are systemic and can lead to multi-organ failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Colchicum cupanii toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is highly toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: When does Colchicum cupanii bloom?
A: It blooms in autumn, typically September to October.
Q: How should Colchicum cupanii be cared for?
A: It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, with minimal watering during dormancy.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Colchicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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