Meadow Saffron Survey Sutton Bingham

Join us on Thu 7th Sep 2024 at 10.30am at the Sutton Bingham Reservoir picnic car park in Yeovil, BA22 9QP, what3words

Monitoring the beautiful meadow saffron (Colchicum autumnale) in Sutton Bingham meadows.

'Meadow saffron is a plant of damp hay meadows and woodland rides and clearings, but is also popular in gardens. It is also known as 'Autumn crocus' or 'Naked ladies'; the latter name stemming from the habit of the flowers appearing without any leaves. Its pink, crocus-like flowers appear in September, but this plant is, in fact, a colchicum - a bulbous plant, but not a true crocus. The leaves appear in the spring and may be confused with Ramsons - a potentially lethal mistake, since all parts of the plant are poisonous. The unimproved grasslands where this beautiful plant grows were typically managed for hay since the poisonous leaves die down prior to harvest.' Please note this date might change if conditions cause the meadow saffron to come up early (this happened in the hot summer of 2022).

This event is perfect for nature lovers of all ages and abilities, and is a great way to get some exercise, fresh air, and sunshine. No surveying experience required.