Crocus nudiflorus grows from corms,[4] which spread out into clumps of plants by stolons.[3] Each corm usually sends out one long-tubed,[4] goblet-shaped,[3] or bell-shaped flower.[5] The bloom appears in autumn,[4] or at the end of summer.[5] The colour ranges from deep purple to lilac-purple with a paler throat and bright orange or yellow stigma.[4][5][3] The linear, basal leaves,[4] usually with a silvery central stripe,[3] are produced in winter and spring following the autumn flowers,[4] when the fruits appear.[5]
Taxonomy
The Latin specific epithetnudiflorus means 'naked flower', in reference to the flower emerging before the leaves.[5][2]
It was published and described by James Edward Smith in 'English Botany' Volume 7 on table 491 in 1798.[1][6]
It is found on roadsides, meadows and pastures.[2][3] It often grows in pastures with other crocus species including Crocus vernus subsp. albiflorus, but it is often eaten by wild boars.[5]
Uses
It has been used in folk medicine as an anti-spasmodic, as an abortive and a sedative.[5]
