Colchicum
/ˈkɒl.kɪ.kəm/noun
A genus of autumn-blooming, bulb-like flowering plants, including autumn crocus and meadow saffron.
Did you know?Colchicum is named after Colchis, the legendary region on the Black Sea associated in Greek myth with sorcery, Medea, and dangerous botanical knowledge.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
Κολχικόν (kolchikón)
“A plant from Colchis, especially the autumn-flowering bulb later called colchicum.”
Latin
Latin
colchicum
“A medicinal or poisonous plant associated with Colchis.”
Late Latin / Medieval Latin
Latin
colchicum
“The plant name used in herbal and medical texts.”
Middle English
English
colchicum
“A medicinal plant, especially meadow saffron.”
Modern English
English
colchicum
“Any plant of the genus Colchicum, especially autumn crocus.”