Autumn Crocus

Colchicum autumnale

Dogs: Severe Cats: Severe

Veterinary Emergency

EMERGENCY. Immediate vet care. No antidote exists. Aggressive supportive care required. Delayed symptoms can appear days later even if pet seems fine initially.

ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 | Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

Plant Information

Common Names

Meadow Saffron, Colchicum, Naked Lady

Family

Colchicaceae

Toxicity Details

Toxic Parts

all parts, especially bulbs and seeds

Toxic Compound

Colchicine

Onset Time

2-24 hours (delayed organ failure at 2-5 days)

Severity

severe

Symptoms to Watch For

Bloody vomiting
Severe diarrhea
Bone marrow suppression
Multi-organ failure
Death

What to Do

EMERGENCY. Immediate vet care. No antidote exists. Aggressive supportive care required. Delayed symptoms can appear days later even if pet seems fine initially.

Do not wait for symptoms. Call your vet or poison control immediately.

About Autumn Crocus

Autumn Crocus is extremely dangerous — NOT to be confused with the harmless Spring Crocus. Colchicine suppresses bone marrow and causes multi-organ failure. The delay between ingestion and serious symptoms (2-5 days) means owners may not connect the two. Any suspected ingestion requires immediate emergency care.

Safe Alternatives

These plants provide a similar look but are non-toxic to pets:

✓ Spring Crocus ✓ Pansy ✓ Zinnia