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Position

Sun Exposure:
Full sun
Aspect:
South facing, west facing
Position in Border:
Front

Soil

Acidic / Chalky / Alkaline / Well Drained / Light / Sandy

Although often called autumn crocus, colchicums are not related to true crocuses. There are winter- and spring-flowering species, but the most common ones bloom in September and October. They flower when least expected, the large blooms suddenly appearing from the bare earth without any leaves – hence the common name naked ladies.

Colchicum 'Lilac Wonder' bears dramatic, pink-purple flowers. The large, floppy foliage grows in spring and is best if hidden by shrubs and herbaceous plants. It's ideal for naturalising in grass or at the front of a sunny border.

All parts of the plant are poisonous, so wear gloves when handling the bulbs.

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Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plantyesyes
Flowersyesyes
Divideyesyesyes

Colchicum ‘Lilac wonder’ and wildlife

Colchicum ‘Lilac wonder’ has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.

Is Colchicum ‘Lilac wonder’ poisonous?

Colchicum ‘Lilac wonder’ causes an upset stomach and is harmful if ingested.

Toxic to:
Is known to attract Cats
Cats
Is known to attract Dogs
Dogs
Is known to attract Horses
Horses
No reported toxicity to:
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Livestock
Livestock
Is not known to attract People
People
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