Common name:Autumn Crocus, Meadow saffron
Scientific name: Colchicum autumnale, Colchium spp
Hazard associated: All parts of the plant are poisonous.
Notes:
- These species are commonly planted in gardens due to their attractive flowers which emerge after the leaves have died off, hence one of the common names “naked ladies” which is sometimes used.
- Colchicine, a drug used to treat gout and other conditions is derived from this species. However, colchicine is poisonous outside this medicinal setting, causing extreme gastrointestinal distress, and possibly general organ failure.
- Cases of autumn crocus poisoning have often been caused by foragers mistaking it for similar plants.
Wikipedia page: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colchicum_autumnale