These gorgeous blooms in my garden are commonly known as autumn crocuses or meadow saffron, though they aren't actually true crocuses, and are also not related to saffron plants. These little beauties belong to a whole different family than their common names suggest (Cochinas speciosum) and are toxic if ingested.
Interestingly (to me anyway), the ovary is below ground, so pollen tubes must grow downwards (almost 3 inches) to complete the fertilization process. Fascinating!
As you can see, they have certainly added a lot of color to the garden at this time of year.
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