Crocus sativus Saffron (Iridaceae)

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Crocus sativus
Saffron
(1 Page of 5)

The Crocus sativus plant species is found in S. Europe - Greece to W. Asia. It is a member of the Iridaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Saffron.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Crocus sativus
Common Name:  Saffron
Family:  Iridaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  The plant is poisonous[21]. The plant is perfectly safe in normal usage but 5 - 10 grammes of saffron has been known to cause death[65].

Mature Height:  0.1   Mature Width:  0.1

Habitat:  Not known in a truly wild location[90].

Propagation Notes: Seed - according to some reports this species is a sterile triploid and so does not produce fertile seed[90, 238]. However, if seed is obtained then it is best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame[1]. Stored seed can be sown in the spring in a cold frame[1]. Germination can take 1 - 6 months at 18°c[164]. Unless the seed has been sown too thickly, do not transplant the seedlings in their first year of growth, but give them regular liquid feeds to make sure they do not become deficient. Divide the small bulbs once the plants have died down, planting 2 - 3 bulbs per 8cm pot. Grow them on for another 2 years in a greenhouse or frame and plant them out into their permanent positions when dormant in late summer[K]. It takes 3 years for plants to flower from seed[244]. Division of the clumps in late summer after the plant has died down[1, 4, 14]. The bulbs can be planted out direct into their permanent positions.

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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