Plant the corms in late summer or early fall so they establish before producing their spectacular autumn flowers.
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Corm
Colchicaceae
Waterlily Colchicum
Colchicum autumnale ‘Waterlily’
Waterlily Autumn Crocus produces beautiful double lilac-pink flowers that resemble water lilies. This elegant variety brings refined beauty to autumn gardens.
Quantity
1 corm
Exposure
Full sun to partial shade
Hardiness
Zone 4
Difficulty level
Easy
Discover the plant
Family
Colchicaceae
Type
Corm
Cycle
Perennial
Waterlily Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale ‘Waterlily’) is a spectacular corm-forming perennial admired for its large, double flowers that resemble elegant water lilies. From September to October, its numerous silky petals in delicate lilac-pink emerge directly from the ground, creating a lavish display just as the garden begins to fade for the season. Growing 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 in) tall, this variety brings an unexpected touch of elegance and refinement to autumn landscapes. Its broad, glossy green foliage appears only the following spring before disappearing in early summer. Hardy to Zone 4, it returns reliably in Quebec when planted in well-drained soil.
Plant the corms in late summer or early autumn, approximately 10 to 12 cm (4 to 5 in) deep and 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 in) apart. Choose a location in full sun to partial shade with rich, loose soil that remains moist during spring and drains exceptionally well throughout the year. Water lightly after planting, then moderately while the spring foliage is developing. Once the leaves yellow and disappear, greatly reduce watering to respect the plant's natural summer dormancy. Always allow the foliage to die back naturally, as it replenishes the corm's energy reserves and encourages increasingly abundant flowering over the years.
‘Waterlily’ Autumn Crocus is an excellent choice for borders, rock gardens, open woodland areas, and naturalized gardens, where its luxurious double flowers become a striking focal point. Planted in groups, it creates an elegant display among late-season foliage. Pair it with hardy cyclamen, Japanese anemones, ferns, and hostas to extend seasonal interest until the first frosts. Its late-season flowers also provide nectar for bees and other pollinators that remain active in autumn. However, this plant is grown strictly for ornamental purposes. All parts of the plant are highly toxic and must never be consumed or confused with true crocuses.
Planting guide
From planting to establishment.
Planting depth
10 to 12 cm (4 to 5 in)
Establishment temperature
10 to 18°C (50 to 64°F)
Establishment time
21 to 42 days
Best planting time
Late Summer to Fall
Propagation
Propagate by dividing the corms after several years when clumps become overcrowded.
Growing method
Plant the corms approximately 10 to 12 cm (4 to 5 in) deep in rich, loose, well-drained soil. Space them 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 in) apart. Grow in full sun to partial shade where the soil remains moist during spring but drier throughout summer. Water lightly after planting. Allow the spring foliage to yellow naturally so nutrients return to the corm. Colonies become increasingly floriferous over the years.
Soil and care
The right conditions.
Exposure
Full sun to partial shade
Soil pH
Neutral to slightly alkaline
Hardiness zone
Zone 4
Minimum temperature
-34°C (-30°F)
Watering
Water lightly while the spring foliage is developing, then greatly reduce watering during summer dormancy.
Soil type
Rich, loose soil that remains moist in spring and drains exceptionally well.
Fertilization
Apply compost in spring or use a light bulb fertilizer to encourage healthy foliage development.
Seasonal care
Allow the foliage to yellow naturally before removing it. Avoid excessive winter moisture and limit disturbance of the corms to encourage abundant flowering.
Container growing
A controlled environment.
Recommended pot size
25 cm (10 in)
Container growing is easy in a pot at least 25 cm (10 in) deep with excellent drainage. Use a rich, loose potting mix that remains moist during spring growth but drier during summer dormancy. Place the container in full sun or light partial shade. Water moderately during spring growth, then greatly reduce watering after the foliage disappears. The corms can remain in place for many years if winter drainage is excellent.
Bloom and dimensions
The complete profile.
Flower color
Lilac pink
Foliage color
Glossy green
Foliage type
Deciduous
Growth rate
Moderate
Bloom period
Large double lilac-pink flowers emerge directly from the ground in autumn and provide nectar for the last active pollinators of the season.
Fruiting
None
Harvest
None
Garden associations
What to plant with it.
Good companions
Hardy cyclamen, Japanese anemones, ferns, and hostas make excellent companion plants.
Avoid planting with
Slugs may feed on young foliage, while poorly drained soils can lead to corm rot.
Ideal for borders, rock gardens, open woodland areas, and naturalized gardens where its elegant autumn flowers become a major focal point.
From the garden to inspiration.
Waterlily Autumn Crocus is grown strictly for ornamental purposes, and all parts of the plant are highly toxic. It must never be consumed or confused with true autumn crocuses. Its spectacular double autumn flowers bring refined beauty to the garden when few other plants remain in bloom, making it an outstanding choice for extending seasonal interest.
Frequently asked questions
Everything toknow.
Yes. It is hardy to Zone 4 and returns reliably every autumn when planted in well-drained soil.
No. All parts of the plant are highly toxic. It should never be eaten or confused with true crocuses.
The spring foliage nourishes the corm after autumn flowering. It is essential to allow the leaves to yellow naturally before removing them.
Yes. Its large autumn flowers provide a valuable nectar source for the last active pollinators of the season.
Its strengths, naturally.
Plants that attract butterflies
Butterflies
