Description
Introduction to Colchicum ‘Lilac Queen’
Colchicum ‘Lilac Queen’ is a captivating and unique bulbous perennial from the Liliaceae family, commonly known as Autumn Crocus. Belonging to the species Colchicum byzantinum, it offers a fascinating display of lilac-rose blooms that appear in autumn, a time when most gardens are winding down. What makes Colchicum especially intriguing is its unusual growth habit—its vibrant flowers emerge first, before the foliage, which appears the following spring.
This hardy bulb can be grown in cool to subtropical climates and is particularly suited to temperate, dry, and Mediterranean climates, making it a versatile choice for gardeners across different regions.
Appearance
The flowers of Colchicum ‘Lilac Queen’ are a striking shade of lilac-rose, standing out in the garden with their cup-shaped blooms. These flowers emerge on short stems during autumn, adding a splash of colour when most other plants are preparing for dormancy. Despite their short stature, the blooms are bold and make a beautiful seasonal statement. After the flowers fade, broad green leaves will emerge in spring, providing a lush background for the garden throughout the warmer months before dying back in preparation for the next flowering cycle.
Hardiness and Versatility
Colchicum ‘Lilac Queen’ is highly valued not only for its beauty but also for its hardiness. This plant is both frost and drought-tolerant, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens. It can even flower indoors without soil or water, offering a unique decorative option. However, after flowering, it’s important to plant the bulb in soil to allow it to complete its life cycle.
Uses of Colchicum ‘Lilac Queen’
- Autumn Colour: Provides vibrant lilac-rose blooms in autumn when most other plants are dormant.
- Naturalising: Ideal for naturalising in garden beds, under trees, or grassy areas, creating a low-maintenance display.
- Pots and Containers: Thrives in pots or containers, perfect for patios, balconies, or small garden spaces.
- Cut Flowers: Short stems still make great cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Indoor Flowering: Can flower indoors without soil or water for a unique decorative display.
- Low Maintenance: Hardy and tolerant of both frost and drought, requiring little care once established.
- Woodland Gardens: Works well under deciduous trees, adding interest to shaded areas.
- Border Planting: Adds late-season colour to garden borders alongside other perennials.
Climate for Colchicum ‘Lilac Queen’
Colchicum ‘Lilac Queen’ thrives across a range of Australian climates, from cool to subtropical, and is particularly well-suited to temperate, Mediterranean, semi-arid, and arid regions.
Common Requirements (Cool, Temperate, Mediterranean, Semi-Arid, and Arid Climates):
In cool regions like Victoria and Tasmania, as well as temperate, Mediterranean, semi-arid, and arid climates, such as South Australia and parts of Western Australia, Colchicum ‘Lilac Queen’ performs well with minimal care.
Requirements:
- Plant in full to partial sun with well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging.
- Once established, no supplementary watering is generally needed, thanks to the plant’s natural drought tolerance.
- These climates mimic the plant’s native environment, making Colchicum a low-maintenance option for autumn colour.
Subtropical Climates:
In subtropical climates like parts of Queensland, Colchicum can still grow successfully but requires a little extra care due to higher humidity and moisture levels.
Requirements:
- Ensure well-drained soil and avoid overwatering, particularly during the dormant period, to prevent bulb rot.
- Plant in partial shade in extremely hot regions to protect the bulbs from excessive heat.
Tropical Climates:
Colchicum ‘Lilac Queen’ is best suited to cooler, temperate, and dry climates where the bulbs can experience distinct seasons, including a period of dormancy. In tropical climates, with consistently high humidity and warm temperatures, the conditions are less favourable for Colchicum, as they prefer a drier, cooler resting period after flowering.
- In tropical regions, the lack of a defined cool season and the higher moisture levels can interfere with the natural dormancy and growth cycle of Colchicum, making it more challenging to grow successfully.
What to Do When Your Colchicum ‘Lilac Queen’ Bulbs Arrive
Your Colchicum ‘Lilac Queen’ bulbs will arrive as dormant, small, rounded corms with a smooth, brownish surface, primed and ready to deliver their stunning autumn blooms. Remarkably hardy, these bulbs have the unique ability to flower without the need for soil or water, so if they arrive just outside the planting season, there’s no need to worry—they can still thrive beautifully.
Storage and Planting:
If you’re not ready to plant immediately:
- Short-Term Storage: Store the bulbs in a cool, dry place like a cupboard, but keep in mind they may sprout or flower in storage. To preserve their energy, plant them as soon as possible, or if you’re not ready to plant, you can place them on a window ledge or table and enjoy their blooms indoors.
Planting Time:
- Plant As Soon As Possible: If you’re ready to plant, do so right away to allow the bulbs time to settle before their autumn bloom. If they arrive sprouting, they can be planted immediately in the ground or containers.
- Window Ledge or Table Option: If you prefer to let them bloom indoors, simply place the bulbs on a window ledge or table without soil or water. Once flowering has finished, be sure to plant the bulbs immediately in well-draining soil, about 10 cm deep and spaced 10-15 cm apart, to ensure their long-term growth.
Growth Without Soil:
Colchicum bulbs are remarkable in that they can bloom even without being planted, but for their long-term health, it’s essential to plant them after flowering. The foliage, which appears in spring, plays a crucial role in replenishing the bulb’s energy for future blooms. By planting your bulbs after blooming, you ensure the bulb can absorb essential nutrients from the soil, supporting healthy foliage and strong growth for future blooming seasons.
Colchicum Planting Guide
Colchicums, such as Colchicum ‘Lilac Queen’, are hardy, low-maintenance bulbs that thrive in various climates and garden settings. They bring stunning autumn blooms to your garden and are suitable for garden beds, pots, containers, or naturalising in grassy areas and under trees. Once established, they are both frost and drought-resistant, making them highly adaptable. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your Colchicums thrive, whether you’re in a cool, temperate, Mediterranean, semi-arid, or subtropical climate.
What You Will Need:
- Colchicum bulbs (e.g., Colchicum ‘Lilac Queen’)
- Well-draining soil or potting mix: Look for a premium potting mix or garden soil labelled “well-draining” and enriched with compost. This helps prevent waterlogging, which can lead to bulb rot.
- Compost or well-rotted manure: Available in most garden centres, choose organic compost or well-rotted manure to enrich your soil. Look for bags labelled organic, composted, or well-aged to ensure good quality.
- Complete fertiliser: Opt for a balanced fertiliser with a mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (often labelled NPK). Products like all-purpose fertilisers or bulb fertilisers work well.
- Mulch (e.g., bark chips or straw): Choose bark mulch, wood chips, or straw to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Look for bags labelled natural or organic mulch. In fire-prone areas, consider using fire-resistant mulch, such as gravel, stones, or composted wood chips, which are less likely to ignite compared to straw or bark.
For all climates, mulching after planting helps suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate temperature, making it beneficial in most gardening situations. Refresh the mulch as needed throughout the growing season.
- Garden spade or trowel
- Watering can or hose with a gentle spray
- Wide containers (if planting in pots): For containers, look for wide, shallow pots that allow bulbs to spread. The pot should have good drainage holes.
- Pest control, such as organic slug and snail deterrents (optional for spring care): Look for organic pest deterrents like copper tape, or slug/snail pellets labelled eco-friendly or safe for pets and wildlife.
Step 1: Choose Your Planting Location Based on Your Climate
Colchicums are versatile, but their care will vary slightly depending on your climate:
- Cool and Temperate Climates: Colchicums thrive in full sun to part shade. Naturalise them under deciduous trees, or plant them in garden beds or containers. Ensure the soil is well-drained, especially in cooler, wetter regions.
- Mediterranean and Semi-Arid Climates: In these warmer, drier climates, plant Colchicums in a part shade position to protect them from the harsh midday sun. Mulching is particularly beneficial in these climates to retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Subtropical Climates: In subtropical areas, Colchicums should be planted in partial shade to avoid too much direct sunlight. While they are drought-tolerant once established, they will need more attention to soil moisture during their active growth period.
Where to Plant:
- Naturalising: Colchicums are ideal for naturalising in lawns, meadows, or under deciduous trees. In cooler and temperate climates, the open sunlight after autumn leaf drop benefits their blooms. Avoid planting under evergreen trees, as year-round shade will reduce flowering.
- Ground Planting: In garden beds or borders, choose a sunny spot in cooler climates or a slightly shaded area in hotter regions. Ensure the soil is well-drained and enriched with organic matter.
- Pots and Containers: Colchicums thrive in wide containers that allow them to spread and multiply. Containers are ideal for patios, balconies, or small garden spaces. Place in full sun to partial shade, depending on your climate.
Step 2: Prepare the Soil and Fertilise
Before planting, ensure the soil is enriched and well-draining to encourage healthy growth.
- For Ground Planting or Naturalising:
- In all climates, prepare the planting area by mixing well-rotted compost or manure into the soil a few weeks before planting.
- Add a complete fertiliser to provide essential nutrients.
- For Pots and Containers:
- Use a well-draining potting mix, enriched with compost or organic matter.
- Incorporate a complete fertiliser at planting time to promote strong growth.
Step 3: Planting Your Colchicum Bulbs
- Ground Planting or Naturalising:
- Planting Depth: Dig holes 10 cm deep and plant the bulbs with the pointed end facing up. The tip of the bulb should be just above the soil level.
- Spacing: Space bulbs 15-20 cm apart for garden beds or naturalising. For naturalising, plant bulbs in irregular clusters or drifts for a more natural look.
- Pots and Containers:
- Depth and Spacing: Plant bulbs at 10 cm depth, spaced 10-15 cm apart in a wide container.
- Position: Place the container in full sun to part shade, depending on your climate, ensuring good air circulation.
Step 4: Water and Mulch
After planting, focus on watering and mulching, particularly in warmer climates:
Watering:
- In cool and temperate climates, water after planting and ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
- In Mediterranean, semi-arid, and subtropical climates, water thoroughly and ensure the soil retains moisture during their active growth period.
Mulching:
- In Mediterranean and semi-arid climates, mulching is essential to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, especially during dry, hot periods.
- In cooler climates, mulching is highly recommended to protect bulbs from frost, stabilise soil temperature, and prevent the soil from freezing.
- In subtropical climates, mulching is helpful to maintain consistent soil moisture and temperature during hot and humid periods, but it may not be strictly necessary if soil moisture is naturally well-maintained.
- For all climates, mulching after planting helps suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate temperature, making it beneficial in most gardening situations. Refresh the mulch as needed throughout the growing season.
- In fire-prone areas, using fire-resistant mulch like gravel or composted wood chips is recommended to reduce the risk of ignition.
Step 5: Colchicum Care After Flowering
After Colchicums bloom in autumn, their flowers will eventually fade, signalling the next phase of their growth cycle.
- Fading Flowers: As autumn progresses, the stunning goblet-shaped flowers will begin to fade and die back. It’s important to remove each spent flower as it fades, rather than waiting until the entire flowering period is over. This prevents the plant from directing energy into seed production, allowing it to focus on building up energy in the bulb for next year’s growth. Regularly removing spent flowers also keeps the garden looking tidy and healthy.
- Post-Flowering Phase: Once all the flowers have faded in late autumn, Colchicums will enter a quiet stage through winter, during which no above-ground growth will be visible. However, the bulbs are still storing energy and preparing for foliage, which will emerge in late winter or early spring.
- Foliage Emergence: At the end of winter or the beginning of spring, Colchicums will produce their foliage. This lush, green foliage is essential for the health of the bulbs, as it helps replenish the energy used during flowering. The leaves will continue to grow throughout spring and early summer, gathering nutrients from sunlight.
- Do Not Remove Foliage: It’s crucial to allow the foliage to grow and die back naturally. Removing the leaves too early can deprive the bulbs of necessary nutrients, leading to weaker growth and fewer blooms in the following year. Only remove the foliage once it has fully yellowed and withered.
- Top Dressing with Fertiliser: In spring, as the foliage is actively growing, apply a complete fertiliser to give the plant the nutrients it needs to replenish the bulbs and prepare for the next autumn bloom.
What to Do During Dormancy
- Dormancy (Summer): After the foliage dies back in late spring or early summer, Colchicums will enter a dormancy period during summer. During this time, no above-ground growth will be visible, but the bulbs will be actively storing energy for their next bloom cycle in autumn.
- What to Do During Dormancy: There’s no need to lift or disturb the bulbs while they are dormant, except in very wet or waterlogged areas that are exposed to rain (such as in subtropical regions during the wet season), where bulbs may be lifted and stored to prevent rot. Otherwise, Colchicums can be left undisturbed in the ground.
- Monitoring: Simply monitor the planting site for weeds and keep the soil free of debris. Colchicums will naturally resume growth with the next flowering cycle in autumn.
Step 6: Maintenance and Lifting Cycle
Colchicums generally require minimal maintenance but may need lifting and dividing if they become overcrowded or if flowering performance declines. It’s important to replant the bulbs after division in all climates to ensure they recover and bloom well in the future.
Lifting and Dividing: If flowering declines or the bulbs become overcrowded, lift and divide them in January, during their dormancy period.
- In all climates: After lifting, it is best to replant the bulbs immediately to allow them to re-establish in the soil. Replant them in well-drained soil at a depth of about 10 cm. Immediate replanting helps ensure healthy bulbs and a stronger bloom in the next season.
- In areas with wet summers: Colchicums can still thrive in wet summer regions with a little extra care. If the soil is prone to becoming waterlogged, consider lifting the bulbs during dormancy to prevent rot. Store them in a dry, dark place until conditions improve. Once the soil is ready, replant the bulbs as soon as possible to allow them to resume their growth cycle. With proper care, Colchicums will continue to perform well, even in wetter climates.
Lifting Colchicum Bulbs: When lifting the bulbs, use a garden fork to gently lift them from the soil, taking care not to damage them. Trim off any dead leaves still attached.
- Storage Conditions: If storing, place the bulbs in a cool, dry location, such as on a wire rack or in a breathable netting bag. Ideal storage temperatures are around 20°C—avoid exposing them to temperatures above 30°C, as this can affect bulb viability.
- Replanting: Bulbs should be replanted the following season according to the recommended planting schedule for your climate.
Replant After Lifting: In all climates, it’s essential to replant the bulbs after division to allow them time to recover and build up energy for future flowering.
Long-Term Care: In Mediterranean, semi-arid, and arid climates, as well as cooler and temperate regions, Colchicums can generally be left undisturbed in the ground for several years. As long as the soil is well-drained, they will continue to multiply and return each autumn with little intervention. Lifting and dividing should only be done when necessary.
Step 7: Ongoing Care
Once established, Colchicums are resilient and require little attention:
- Frost and Drought Resistance: Once established, Colchicums are frost-resistant in cool and temperate climates and drought-tolerant in Mediterranean, semi-arid, and subtropical climates.
- Pests: Watch for snails and slugs in spring when the foliage emerges. These pests can damage the new shoots, so consider using organic pest control methods.
- Rot Prevention: In all climates, ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent rot, especially during wet periods.
Additional Tips:
- Naturalising: Colchicums are ideal for naturalising in grassy areas, under trees, or in meadows, especially in cool and temperate climates where they benefit from seasonal light changes. Allow them to spread naturally and avoid disturbing them unless necessary.
- Cut Flowers: Colchicum blooms make excellent cut flowers, brightening indoor spaces in autumn.
Pest and Disease Management for Colchicums
While Colchicums are relatively low-maintenance and resistant to many common garden problems, there are still a few pests and diseases that could affect them. Being proactive in managing these issues will ensure your plants thrive and continue to produce healthy blooms.
Common Pests
- Slugs and Snails:
- Problem: Slugs and snails are the most common pests for Colchicums, especially when the new shoots and foliage emerge in late winter or early spring. These pests can cause damage by chewing on the leaves, leaving unsightly holes and ragged edges.
- Solution: Use organic slug and snail deterrents like copper tape, crushed eggshells, or eco-friendly slug pellets. Regular hand-picking during wet periods and placing barriers around plants can also help protect against infestations.
- Vine Weevils:
- Problem: Vine weevils primarily affect potted Colchicums, causing damage to the leaves and roots. Adult weevils eat the leaves, creating notches, while their larvae feed on the plant’s roots, leading to stunted growth and even death in severe cases.
- Solution: Biological control, such as using beneficial nematodes, can target vine weevil larvae. For adults, physical removal is effective. If growing Colchicums in pots, consider using nematodes regularly during the growing season.
Diseases
- Root Rot:
- Problem: Root rot can occur when Colchicums are planted in poorly drained soil or overwatered. This fungal disease causes the roots to decay, which can lead to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and eventually the plant’s death.
- Solution: Ensure your Colchicums are planted in well-draining soil. If growing them in pots, use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the container has adequate drainage holes. Avoid overwatering, especially during their dormant period. If rot is detected, remove and discard affected plants, and treat the soil with a fungicide if needed.
- Botrytis Blight (Grey Mold):
- Problem: Botrytis blight, or grey mold, can appear on Colchicum blooms during wet, humid conditions. This fungal disease causes the flowers and leaves to develop a grey, fuzzy mould, eventually leading to their decay.
- Solution: Avoid overcrowding your plants, as good air circulation helps prevent fungal issues. If Botrytis blight occurs, remove affected plant parts and dispose of them (do not compost). Fungicides can also be used to prevent further spread.
Preventive Care
- Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around the base of Colchicums can help keep the soil moist and reduce the splash of water onto the foliage, which can spread fungal spores.
- Proper Spacing: Ensure plants are spaced appropriately to allow good air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal infections.
- Good Drainage: Always plant Colchicums in well-draining soil to prevent water buildup and root rot, especially in containers or pots.
Important Safety Considerations for Colchicum
While Colchicum is a beautiful and valuable addition to any garden, it’s important to be aware of some precautions when growing this plant, especially in homes with children or pets.
Colchicum and Human Safety:
- Handle with Care: Colchicum contains colchicine, a naturally occurring substance that can be toxic if ingested. While this compound has medicinal properties in controlled doses, accidental ingestion can lead to discomfort such as nausea or vomiting.
- Sensitive Skin Precaution: Although Colchicum is not generally considered a skin irritant, those with sensitive skin are advised to wear gloves when handling the bulbs as a precaution to avoid irritation.
- Supervise Children: If you have young children, make sure the bulbs and plants are kept out of reach. The plant’s beautiful flowers may attract attention, so it’s important to supervise and educate them on the risks of consuming plants.
Colchicum and Pet Safety:
- Be Mindful of Pets: If you have pets such as dogs or cats, it’s important to keep Colchicum bulbs and plants out of their reach. While the plant is safe to admire, ingestion can lead to an upset stomach and other symptoms in pets.
- Quick Action: If a pet is suspected of consuming Colchicum, seek advice from a vet immediately. Timely intervention ensures that your pet stays healthy.
Seek Medical Attention:
- For Humans: If any part of the Colchicum plant is ingested or if there are signs of discomfort such as nausea, vomiting, or skin irritation, seek medical advice from a health practitioner immediately. Quick action can prevent more serious health concerns.
By being mindful of these safety considerations, you can enjoy the beauty of Colchicum while ensuring the safety of your family and pets.
CAUTION: Harmful if eaten
Supplied as dormant bulbs