Also known as autumn crocus, meadow saffron or naked ladies, colchicums are a delight to behold. Like crocuses, the blooms have a delicate, ethereal look, but unlike crocuses, they flower very late, so you plant them in autumn for next autumn’s blooms. Are they worth the wait? Undoubtedly! And colchicums have an interesting little trick: the blooms spring up before the leaves do, creating a very unusual spectacle. Autumn crocuses will settle in to most gardens returning every year, so don’t delay. Get your naked ladies started now and turn autumn into the new spring.