Colchicum luteum

Physical Characteristics

Colchicum luteum is a BULB growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf from March to June, in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from April to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China to the Himalayas.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Alterative Anodyne Aphrodisiac Carminative Laxative The corms are alterative, aphrodisiac, carminative and laxative[240]. They are used in India to treat gout, rheumatism and diseases of the liver and spleen[240]. They contain the toxic alkaloid 'colchicine' which is used externally to relieve pain[211, 240]. The dried corms contain around 0.25% colchicine and the seed about 0.4%[240].

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].