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Colchicum luteum (1 Page of 5) The Colchicum luteum plant species is found in E. Asia - China to the Himalayas. It is a member of the Colchicaceae family. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Colchicum luteum Family: Colchicaceae Author: Bak. Known Hazards: All parts of the plant, but especially the bulb[200], are poisonous[4, 7, 10, 19, 65]. They cause vomiting, violent purging, serious inflammation of the stomach and bowels, and death[232].
Handling the corms can cause skin allergies in some people[238]. Mature Height: 0.1 Mature Width: 0.1 Habitat: Stony or earthy hillsides and alpine meadows at higher altitudes[200].
Propagation Notes: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in early summer in a seed bed or a cold frame[1, 164]. Germination can be very slow, taking up to 18 months at 15°c[164]. It is best to sow the seed thinly so that it is not necessary to transplant the seedlings for their first year of growth. Apply a liquid fertilizer during their first summer, however, to ensure they get sufficient nourishment. Prick out the seedlings once they are dormant, putting perhaps 2 plants per pot, and grow them on in a greenhouse or frame for at least a couple of years. Plant them out into their permanent positions when they are dormant[K]. The seedlings take 4 - 5 years to reach flowering size[1].
Division of the bulbs in June/July when the leaves have died down[1]. Larger bulbs can be planted out direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up the smaller bulbs and grow them on in a cold frame for a year before planting them out. The plant can be divided every other year if a quick increase is required[1].
For further Colchicum luteum gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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