Autumn Crocus
DANGEROUSAutumn crocus (Colchicum) is one of the most dangerous garden plants — small amounts can be fatal.
Toxicity Level
10/10Why It's Dangerous
The bulbs, flowers and seeds are particularly dangerous and contain colchicine, a powerful cell poison.
The Science
ColchicineColchicine binds to tubulin and prevents mitosis, causing rapid death of dividing cells in the gut lining, bone marrow and other rapidly turning over tissues. There is no specific antidote, and toxicity can have a delayed onset, lulling owners into false reassurance.
Sources
- •The Royal Kennel Club — Poisons in Your Garden
- •ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
Dosage & Thresholds
Less than 0.1 mg/kg of colchicine can cause severe illness; lethal dose is approximately 0.5 mg/kg. Plant content is highly variable, so any ingestion is an emergency.
Symptoms to Watch For
If your dog has ingested Autumn Crocus
Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal poison hotline immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a vet.
callFind Emergency Vet