Crocus sativus
(Saffron Crocus)
Origin: Native of Southwest Asia
Family: Iridaceae
Light: Full sun
Height: <6"
Spacing: 3'-6"
Blooms: Fragrant, small, cup-shaped, pale purple with 3 orange-red stigmas (Saffron), late Summer
Foliage: Herbaceous, green, smooth, grassy
Soil: Well-drained, poor, mildly acidic, neutral
Water: Regular, keep dry in Summer
Uses: Spice, dye, borders, edges, containers, perfume, Fall interest
Propagation: Bulb divisions, offsets
Comments: Crocus sativus or Saffron crocus is a rare herbaceous bulbous plant with a fast growth habit. It is a native of southwest Asia. From late Summer to Fall, Crocus sativus produces light purple cup-shaped blossoms with 3 orange-red stigmas called saffrons. The low, grassy green thin, smooth foliage appears in Fall. Saffron sativus is easily propagated from bulb divisions or offsets. It thrives best in well-drained, mildly acidic or neutral poor soil in a sunny location. It goes dormant in Summer. Mass plant Saffron crocus in borders or in edging. It can also be container cultivated. The stigmas of Saffron sativus are harvested and dried quickly and stored in an air-tight containers for future use. Crocus sativus is popular used as a coloring in foods, perfumes and as a dye in robes like those worn by Buddhist monks. Saffron crocus also contains antioxident-like properties and have been used in traditional medicine. It is said to suppress cancer and is good for the kidneys.
Crocus sativus adds interest to the landscape in the Fall. It attracts a lot of attention.
USDA Zones: 4-8
JennysGarden.com...Plant images and gardening descriptions of Crocus sativus (Saffron Crocus) growing in Jenny's Garden
Image of Crocus sativus or Saffron Crocus coming soon...
Bulb inquiries: jen@JennysGarden.com
