Colchicum: The Complete Guide

An RHS horticultural monograph on all species and cultivars of Colchicum. From autumn-flowering garden showstoppers to rarer spring-flowering types, these beautiful flowers are a must-have for any gardener. Colchicums are best known for their colourful and valuable contribution to gardens in autumn. They explode into life just as other plants are fading, bringing a welcome splash and dash of colour. They are all the more dramatic because the flowers emerge straight from the ground without leaves. Some even start flowering in August, with others extending into October. The large-flowered, autumn-flowering types are just one side of the genus. There are many winter- and spring-flowering species and selections, some of which can be grown in the open garden. Others are best suited to alpine houses and bulb frames where a succession of flowering from November to March is possible. This book contains all you need to know about Colchicum, from the 100 or so species – many photographed in exotic locations – to the most recent cultivars given the Award of Garden Merit. Botany, classification, history in cultivation, plant exploration, colchicine, cultivar selection and a checklist of around 560 cultivar and scientific names are all included. There is extensive advice on growing all types of colchicum and using them to beautiful effect in the garden, all contributing to a comprehensive celebration of these glorious garden-worthy plants. + All 104 species described in detail, with most photographed in the wild. + More than 80 of the most widely grown and recent cultivars illustrated and fully described. + Detailed history of plant exploration finding colchicums in the wild. + A survey of the individuals and nurseries who have selected new cultivars. + The use of colchicine in medicine and plant breeding. + The botany and classification of the genus and its close relatives, with keys to aid identification. + A checklist of around 560 cultivars and scientific names, with introducers, dates and descriptions. + Advice on cultivation, propagation and dramatic ways to use colchicums in gardens.