Autumn Crocus — (c) Denis Bastianelli, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Denis Bastianelli
Photo by (c) Denis Bastianelli, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Denis BastianelliiNaturalistCC BY
Pet safety reference

Autumn Crocus

Colchicum autumnale

The Autumn Crocus is a bulbous perennial known for its late-season blooms that emerge directly from the ground. It contains potent alkaloids that make it highly dangerous if ingested by pets.

ColchicumColchicum autumnaleMeadow SaffronNaked Lady
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Habit
Bulbous perennial
Care
Low

Safety status

Cats & Dogs

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.

If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.

Catsconcern notes

Common signs

Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, shock, organ damage, and bone marrow suppression.

Escalation note

This plant is extremely toxic. Ingestion of any part can lead to severe systemic illness. Please contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal poison control center immediately if ingestion is suspected.

Dogsconcern notes

Common signs

Severe gastrointestinal distress, bloody vomiting, diarrhea, multi-organ failure, and potential respiratory failure.

Escalation note

The toxins in this plant are highly potent and can be fatal. Immediate veterinary intervention is required if your dog has consumed any portion of this plant.

Safer alternatives

No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.

Source evidence

ASPCA Toxic Plant List

toxicology · 99% reliability

Open source

Autumn Crocus contains colchicine and other alkaloids that are highly toxic to both cats and dogs.

Kew Plants of the World Online

botanical · 95% reliability

Open source

Accepted botanical name and distribution data for Colchicum autumnale L.

cats safety pageMy cat ate Autumn Crocusdogs safety pageMy dog ate Autumn Crocus

Same safety verdict

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