Crocus sativus (Saffron Crocus)

Crocus sativus, commonly known as the saffron crocus, is a perennial flowering plant renowned for its vibrant crimson stigmas, which are used to produce the spice saffron. Saffron from this crocus has been used for over 3,500 years. It takes approximately 75,000 Crocus sativus flowers to produce just one pound of saffron spice. Fortunately, it doesn’t take much of true Saffron to spice up your dishes!

Crocus sativus: An In-depth Look

Native: The domesticated saffron crocus is believed to have originated from selective breeding of the wild C. cartwrightianus in the southern regions of mainland Greece.

Plant Type and Habit: This perennial bulb grows in a tufted habit. It forms clumps of grass-like foliage from which the flowers emerge.

Size: Typically, the plant reaches a height of 3-5 inches (7-12 cm) and spreads around 4 inches (10 cm).

Flowers: This fall-blooming Crocus features large, lilac-purple blooms adorned with darker veins and yellow stamens and, more importantly, three vivid red stigmas that extend over the petals. Precious, these three stigmas are the real saffron and are said to be the most expensive spice in the world.

Foliage: The plant has long, slender, grass-like green leaves with a white central stripe.

Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 6-9, which means it can withstand temperatures down to -10°F (-23°C).

Uses: Crocus sativus primarily uses it to harvest saffron, one of the world’s most expensive spices, from its stigmas. It is also used ornamentally in gardens and landscapes. Perfect for beds and borders, banks and slopes, Mediterranean gardens, rock gardens, cottage gardens, or containers.

Wildlife: Pollinators, especially bees, are attracted to its flowers.

Deer and Rabbits: Deer generally avoid Crocus sativus, but rodents can browse it.

Drought: It has moderate drought tolerance but prefers consistent moisture during its growth period.

Toxicity: Crocus sativus bulbs can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.

Invasiveness: This crocus is not considered invasive. It naturalizes easily, coming back year after year. Saffron crocus is sterile and multiplies through cormlets.

Benefits: Apart from its ornamental value, the saffron derived from it has culinary, medicinal, and dyeing applications. Saffron possesses potential health benefits, including antioxidant properties and mood-enhancing effects.

How to Grow and Care for Saffron

Planting Time: Plant corms in early fall for flowering in mid-late fall.

Light: Prefers full sun or very light shade. Ensure your saffron receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.

Soil: Well-draining soil is essential. Sandy-loam or a mixture with compost works best.

Water: Water moderately during the growing season. Keep soil slightly moist but not waterlogged. Since saffron crocus goes dormant in the summer, keep it completely dry during its summer dormancy.

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced bulb fertilizer in early autumn to encourage flowering.

Pruning: Not necessary. However, remove faded flowers to maintain a tidy appearance.

Propagation: Best propagated by corm division. Divide and replant every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding.

Pests and Diseases: Watch for rodents (mice, voles, rabbits), thrips, corm rot.