Colchicum

Colchicum, poisonous flowering plant (Colchicum autumnale) of the lily family, also known as autumn crocus or meadow saffron. Found on the British Isles and in mid- to southern Europe, these plants have crocus-like flowers, whose autumnal blooms range from purple to white. From the underground stems a substance (colcherine) is extracted that is used in the treatment of rheumatism and gout.