A plant record

Autumn crocus / Meadow saffron

Colchicum autumnale · Colchicaceae

EnglishAutumn crocus / Meadow saffron

FrançaisColchique

BotanicalColchicum autumnale

FamilyColchicaceae

Autumn crocus / Meadow saffron — Colchicum autumnale, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

⚠ Deadly poison — documented for recognition and caution, never for use. Every part contains colchicine, a violent cellular toxin; poisoning resembles arsenic and ends in respiratory paralysis, with no simple antidote. Colchicine is a real gout medicine, but only as a physician's precisely-dosed preparation — the plant itself has no safe home use.

In three languages

Français — ⚠ Poison mortel — consigné pour la reconnaissance et la prudence, jamais pour l'usage. Toute la plante contient de la colchicine, toxique cellulaire violent; l'intoxication ressemble à celle de l'arsenic et se termine en paralysie respiratoire, sans antidote simple. La colchicine est un vrai médicament de la goutte, mais seulement en préparation médicale dosée avec précision — la plante n'a aucun usage domestique sûr.

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Sources & lineage

Toxicology (colchicine); prescription-only medical use

Kept alongside

LicoricePineapplePeacock flowerCalotropePapayaRingworm senna

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