Colchicum hierosolymitanum
Colchicum hierosolymitanum · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Colchicum hierosolymitanum is a distinctive perennial plant known for its striking floral displays. This species belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family and is native to specific regions within the Mediterranean basin. A defining biological characteristic of the plant is its production of the potent alkaloid known as colchicine. While this chemical compound is studied for its medicinal properties, it also renders the plant highly toxic if ingested. Understanding the unique chemical profile of this species is essential for both botanical research and safety awareness.
- Synonyms
- Not available
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Colchicaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Colchicum hierosolymitanum is a unique species known widely by its English common name, the Jerusalem Autumn Crocus. This plant is also recognized in Russian-speaking regions as Безвременник иерусалимский. Its cultural and linguistic presence extends into Hebrew, where it is referred to as סתוונית ירושלים. Additionally, it is sometimes identified by the name סתונית ירושלים. These diverse names highlight the plant's geographical significance and its recognition across different languages.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Taxonomy
Colchicum hierosolymitanum belongs to the expansive kingdom Plantae, marking its place within the diverse world of vegetation. This specific species is classified under the class Equisetopsida and falls within the order Liliales. Further refinement of its biological identity places it in the family Colchicaceae. Within this family, it is categorized under the distinct genus Colchicum. Together, these taxonomic relationships provide a clear map of the plant's evolutionary heritage.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Colchicaceae |
| Genus | Colchicum |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Colchicum hierosolymitanum is a distinctive species with a specific geographic range located within the Asia-Temperate region. Its natural distribution is primarily centered in Western Asia, where it flourishes in unique ecological niches. Specifically, this plant can be found growing across the landscapes of Lebanon and Syria. Furthermore, its presence extends into the territory of Palestine, marking its importance to the local flora. Understanding these regional patterns provides valuable insight into the botanical diversity of the Levant.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Colchicum hierosolymitanum is a self-supporting plant that maintains its upright structure without the need for external assistance.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Colchicum hierosolymitanum is a plant species that has been confirmed to contain appreciable amounts of the alkaloid colchicine. Recent research conducted under field conditions highlights that this specific plant contains significant concentrations of the compound within its corms. The study utilized HPLC analysis to demonstrate how varying levels of NPK fertilizer can influence the production of this substance. Notably, the highest colchicine content was recorded in the corms of Colchicum hierosolymitanum at the maturity stage. These findings provide crucial insights into the chemical composition and cultivation requirements of this important species.