meadow saffron
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: * A bulbous autumn-flowering herb with white, purple, or lavender-and-white flowers; native to western and central Europe. It is a perennial plant (Colchicum autumnale) that blooms in the fall, often appearing without leaves. All parts of the plant are highly poisonous.
Usage
- The term meadow saffron is used to specifically name this European wildflower. It is important to note that it is not related to true saffron, despite the name.
- It is primarily used in botanical, horticultural, and toxicological contexts.
Examples
- Noun:
- The field was dotted with the pale purple flowers of the meadow saffron.
- Farmers are warned that meadow saffron is highly toxic to livestock.
- Unlike the spring crocus, meadow saffron blooms in autumn.
Advanced Usage
- The plant's scientific name, , is often used in more formal or scientific writing to avoid confusion with saffron.
- Due to its toxicity, it is frequently mentioned in contexts discussing poisonous plants and their effects.
Variants and Related Words
- Autumn crocus: A common name for the same plant (), referring to its crocus-like appearance and autumn flowering time.
- Naked ladies: Another colloquial name for this plant, as the flowers emerge on bare stems without leaves.
- Colchicum: The genus name, often used to refer to this and related species.
Synonyms
- Autumn crocus
- Naked ladies
- Colchicum autumnale (scientific name)
Notes on Meaning
- Caution: Meadow saffron is distinctly different from saffron crocus (), the source of the culinary spice saffron. Confusing the two can have serious consequences, as meadow saffron is poisonous.
- The "saffron" in its name likely comes from the slight similarity in the color of its stigmas to true saffron, or its historical (and dangerous) use as a saffron adulterant.
Noun
- bulbous autumn-flowering herb with white, purple or lavender-and-white flowers; native to western and central Europe