Definition

1. Noun:
   • A bulbous autumn-flowering herb: Colchicum autumnale is a perennial plant that grows from a bulb-like corm and produces flowers in the autumn.
   • Flower characteristics: Its flowers are typically white, purple, or a combination of lavender and white.
   • Native range: The plant is indigenous to western and central Europe.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The meadow was dotted with the purple blooms of Colchicum autumnale.
  • Gardeners value Colchicum autumnale for its ability to flower in the fall when few other plants do.
  • It is important to handle Colchicum autumnale with care as all parts of the plant are highly toxic.

Advanced Usage

• In botanical and horticultural contexts: The name is used precisely to refer to this specific species within the genus .
  • The study focused on the alkaloid content of Colchicum autumnale.
• Common names: In general usage, it is often referred to by its common names, such as autumn crocus or meadow saffron. However, it is crucial to note that it is not a true crocus.
  • Be careful not to confuse the autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale) with the spring-flowering crocus, as the former is poisonous.

Variants and Related Words

• Colchicine (n): A toxic alkaloid and important medication derived from plants of the genus , including . It is used to treat gout and familial Mediterranean fever.
  • The drug colchicine is extracted from Colchicum autumnale.
• Autumn crocus (n): A common name for .
• Meadow saffron (n): Another common name for .

Synonyms

• Autumn crocus: A widely used synonym, though it can lead to confusion with non-toxic plants.
• Meadow saffron: Another synonym, also referencing its autumn flowering.

Notes on Meaning and Usage

• Critical Distinction: While is commonly called "autumn crocus" or "meadow saffron," it is botanically distinct from true crocuses (genus ) and true saffron (which comes from ). Its primary distinguishing feature is its high toxicity.
• Primary Context: The term is most frequently encountered in botanical, horticultural, and pharmacological contexts due to the plant's distinctive lifecycle and its production of colchicine.

Noun

1. bulbous autumn-flowering herb with white, purple or lavender-and-white flowers; native to western and central Europe