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Position

Sun exposure:
Dappled shade, 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 'Waterlily' bears dramatic, double pink-purple flowers similar to water lilies. 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
Divideyesyes

Colchicum ‘Waterlily’ and wildlife

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

Is Colchicum ‘Waterlily’ poisonous?

Colchicum ‘Waterlily’ 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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