Autumn crocus is a plant that contains colchicines. In Germany it can be easily confused with bear’s garlic, which is an herb used in cooking. Someone who is unable to distinguish the two plants can end up seriously ill or dead.
Autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale): meadow saffron, naked lady
Bear’s garlic (Allium ursinum) ramson, buckram
Feature
Autumn Crocus
Bear’s Garlic
Location
meadow
damp woods
Smell of crushed leaves
none
garlic-like
Flowers
reddish, crocus-like
small and white
Problems arise during the spring and late autumn when blossoms are not present.
Bear’s garlic may also be confused with lily of the valley, which contains cardiac glycosides and saponins.
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