Distinguishing Colchicum from Crocus from pistil characteristics

[Lori S.]

Hi.  I have a general question on how to identify Colchicum species (versus Crocus species). From looking at Colchicum photos here and at some other reputable sites, it appears that the pistils are divided somewhere near the base into three slender filaments that taper to a point without flattened tips or branching. 
By contrast, it seems as though Crocus pistils tend to be thick and divided near the tip into several flattened structures. 

Is this a correct observation?   Any information on this would be much appreciated.  Thank you! 

[arilnut]

Hi Lori. Simple, colchicums have 6 anthers and crocus has 3 anthers.

John B

[Lori S.]

That's helpful.  Thanks very much.
 
EDIT:  I think I found the answer to my question about pistil differences in the Janis Ruksans book.  It shows a variety of Crocus spp. stigma forms which implies that my observation is wrong - that is, that simple, unadorned, three-part pistils don't define Colchicum and may also occur in Crocus spp..

[Ian Y]

Crocus and Colchicum dissected flowers

Colchicums are members of the family Liliaceae and have three styles and six anthers while Crocus are in the Iridaceae and so have three anthers and a single style which may divide into three or more branches.

In the picture the anthers are within the flower I have removed the styles so it can be better seen that the crocus has a single style divided at the end while the Colchicum has three separate ones.

From Bulb Log 4208  http://www.srgc.org.uk/bulblog/log2008/151008/log.html

[Lori S.]

Thank you!

[Karaba]

Colchicums are members of the family Liliaceae

Nice illustration of the differences between Colchicum and Crocus but a small correction, Colchicum is a member of the family Colchicaceae which itself is included in the order Liliales. Crocus is a member of Iridaceae included in Asparagales.