Colchicum cilicicum - Tenore autumn crocus

Colchicum cilicicum, known as "Tenore autumn crocus", belongs to the family of timeless plants (Colchicaceae). This multi-year, herbaceous plant is native to the mountain regions of the eastern Mediterranean and is characterized by its bright violet-pussy flowers that appear in autumn. Because of its aesthetic qualities and its botanical importance, it is often cultivated in botanical gardens and as an ornamental plant.

Morphology

The leaves appear in spring after flowering. They are elongated, lanceolate, dark green and have a smooth surface. These leaves interact until summer, while the plant goes into the resting phase. The flowers appear in autumn and are violet to pink colors with a diameter of about 5 to 8 centimeters. Each flower consists of six perigon leaves that arch up to the outside, and a slim tube that grows deep out of the earth. In the middle there are six stamens and three scar branches. This structure makes the flowers particularly attractive.

The ovary remains underground after the flowering period and only develops into a seed capsule in the following spring. The seeds are round and have a hard, dark brown shell.

Distribution and Habitat

Colchicum cilicicum is native to the mountainous regions of Türkiye, especially in Kilikia, which also explains its name. The plant grows preferably on well -permeable, calcareous floors in open meadows, bushes and light forests. It is adapted to cool, moderate climate zones and prefers locations with a change from damp winters and dry summers.

Ecology

Colchicum cilicicum plays an important role in the ecosystems of its home regions. It offers late food for pollinating insects such as bees that appreciate the flowers due to their late appearance in autumn. The seeds of the plant are distributed by ants (myrmecocheory), which are attracted to the nutrient -rich elaiosome of the seeds.

Toxicology and medical importance

Like all members of the genus Colchicum also contains Colchicum cilicicum the alkaloid colchicin, which occurs in all parts of the plant, especially in the tuber and seed. Colchicin is highly toxic, but is used in medicine, especially for the treatment of gout and for breeding polyploid plants. The handling of this plant requires caution to avoid poisoning.

Horticultural importance

Due to their bright flowers, Colchicum cilicicum is often planted as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is particularly suitable for rock gardens, discounts and natural plantings. The plant is relatively easy to care for because it can adapt to different types of soil, provided that good drainage is guaranteed. Her autumn bloomer character makes you a valuable part of the design of gardens.

Conservation status and threats

Although Colchicum cilicicum is not considered to be directly threatened in its home region, habitat loss can be long -term risks due to agricultural expansion and climate change. The trade in wild tubers can also affect local populations. Conservation measures such as cultivation in botanical gardens and the promotion of sustainable use are crucial to ensure the existence of the species.