what crocus

Discussion in 'Plants: Identification' started by psungee, Oct 18, 2011.

  1. psungee

    psungee Member

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    I read that the Crocus sativa is sometimes confused with it's toxic cousin, Colchicum autumnale. Can someone identify this particular crocus for me ... or offer tips on how to identify which it is? Thanks!
     

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    psungee, Oct 18, 2011
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  2. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    This is the crocus. Definitely.
     
    Ron B, Oct 19, 2011
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  3. psungee

    psungee Member

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    Thanks, Ron B! Would you know (for my own knowledge) what would differentiate it from it's toxic relative?
     
    psungee, Oct 19, 2011
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  4. saltcedar

    saltcedar Rising Contributor 10 Years

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    Colchicum autumnale typically has no foliage, white to pink stigmas present when in bloom.
    Crocus sativa is leafy with 1 to 3 stigmas, inch-long deep orange-red that don't branch.
     
    saltcedar, Oct 19, 2011
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  5. psungee

    psungee Member

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    Thank you! So if I understand correctly, if it's purple (ish) and has long, orangy-red stigmas, they're edible. Aces - appreciate the knowledge, folks!
     
    psungee, Oct 19, 2011
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