.LynEve

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Although they look very similar the Autumn Crocus (Colchicum) belongs to the Lily family while the Spring variety is part of the Iris family. These pop out of the ground on their spindly pale stalks devoid of any leaves . Only when the flowers die do the leaves appear.
Autumn Crocus was mentioned by the Egyptions in Ebers Papyrus for its medicinal value 35 centuries ago. Today the toxin alkaloid, colchicines, is used for the treatment of gout. All parts of the plant are toxic.
I love their fragile beauty - and they are a sure sign our summer is soon ending. These were hiding in the shadows in our public gardens, reaching up for the last of the late afternoon sun. I almost missed them as they were off the beaten track, it was nice to find these little hidden gems.