It's hard to imagine fall without the magical appearance of Colchicums. Their bright, vase-shaped blooms rise without warning and glisten in the sharp light of autumn. In spring, a clump of broad, deer-proof leaves emerges, stays awhile, and vanishes by midsummer. We plant the bulbs in front of shrubs, among vigorous perennials, and at the grassy foot of a fence. Colchicums prefer well-drained soil that doesn't dry out in summer and the need shade where summers are hot.

'Waterlily' Colchicum produces several double, lilac-pink flowers. Their silky texture is a glorious contrast to the ruddy complexion of fall. An excellent cut flower -- lasts 10 days in water. Heirloom, 1928.