Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Colchicum laetum is a perennial bulbous plant celebrated for its striking autumn flowers, often called 'naked ladies'.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers full sun to partial shade.
100% intensity
Can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates.
Water moderately during growth, reduce during dormancy.
100% intensity
Ensure good drainage.
Well-drained, fertile soil.
50% intensity
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures during growth.
100% intensity
Requires a cold period for dormancy.
Outdoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Feed lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
100% intensity
Avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the growing season (spring and autumn), allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during the summer dormancy period to prevent bulb rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions.
Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to prevent seed formation, which can drain energy from the bulb. Cut back any yellowing or dead foliage in late spring or early summer after the leaves have naturally died back.
No other significant pruning is usually required.
Propagate by separating offsets (corms) from the parent bulb during the summer dormancy period. These offsets can be replanted immediately or stored in a cool, dry place until autumn.
Division is the most common and effective method for increasing your stock.
Repot container-grown plants every 2-3 years, or when they appear overcrowded. This is best done during the summer dormancy period when the bulbs are inactive.
Use fresh, well-draining potting mix and ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Colchicum Laetum (Colchicum laetum)
Where Colchicum Laetum (Colchicum laetum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Colchicaceae |
| Genus | Colchicum |
| Species | Colchicum laetum |
Similar in genus Colchicum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
