Crocus flowers are part of the Iris family or Iridaceae. Saffron Crocus are corms, however they may also be referred to as bulbs. Crocus flowers are a diverse group of flowering plants and they come in various colors and species. Not only are the flowers easy to grow, these pretty flowers are also where the pricey spice saffron comes from.
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Varieties of Crocus Flower
Crocus flowers are perennials. Crocus saffron specifically refers to Crocus sativus, the species cultivated for saffron, a highly valued spice derived from the flower’s stigma. You can also grow varieties of crocus which produce a beautiful flower, but it doesn’t produce saffron.
While all saffron comes from crocus flowers, not all crocus flowers produce saffron.
Crocus Flower
Crocus flower is a general term for various species, known for their ornamental beauty. Below is a photo of a crocus growing in our garden. It is a beautiful spring flower with grass like leaves, but it doesn’t produce saffron.
Crocus Saffron
Crocus saffron is a specific species (Crocus sativus) cultivated for its spice. Saffron crocus feature three long, distinctive stigmata that are a vivid bright red-orange color.
Tips on Growing Crocus
If you are planting both saffron crocus and another variety of flowering crocus it is recommended to plant these in separate areas of your yard. Saffron crocus produces an edible spice, some flowering crocus are toxic.
When and How to Plant Crocus & Saffron Crocus
Crocus flowers grow well in gardening zones 6-10. Plant in September or October in Phoenix. Plant corms two inches under the soil and water.
Crocus grow three to four inches in height. They are great naturalizing corms meaning they will multiply each year.
Saffron Crocus Bloom Time
In Phoenix, your crocus will generally bloom in December. Saffron is the stigma part of the crocus flower. This can be harvested when the Saffron crocus bloom. If you’ve ever purchased the spice Saffron you know how expensive it is.
Below is a photo of Saffron Crocus growing in our garden. Do you notice the bright red-orange stigmata coming from the center of the flower? This is how you can tell it is a saffron crocus versus just a flowering crocus.
How to Harvest Saffron Crocus
If you plant a couple dozen Saffron Crocus this should provide a year supply of Saffron for a family. To harvest saffron, pick the flower and gently pull out the three bright red-orange stigmata from the center. Spread the stigmatas in a single layer on a clean, dry surface, such as a paper towel or a baking sheet.
Allow the stigmata to air dry for several days, turning them occasionally. Once dried, store the saffron in an airtight container, away from light and moisture, to maintain its flavor and potency.