Crocus sativus Saffron Crocus

The true Saffron Crocus, grown for the brilliant red stigmas which are harvested and dried to produce saffron. It is also a very pretty autumn-flowering crocus in its own right, with soft lilac-purple flowers and contrasting orange-red stigmas.

Plant in a warm, sunny position in well-drained soil. The flowers appear in autumn, usually from September to November. The red stigmas can be carefully picked when the flowers are open and dried for use as saffron.

Crocus sativus does particularly well in a sunny border, gravel garden or container where the soil will not become waterlogged.

Growing your own saffron

Each flower produces just three red saffron stigmas, which helps explain why saffron is one of the world's most precious spices. Harvest the threads on a dry day once the flowers have opened, gently remove the three red stigmas and allow them to dry thoroughly.

For the best results, choose the sunniest, best-drained spot you have. Saffron crocuses dislike sitting in wet soil, particularly while dormant.

Please note: Crocus sativus is the true saffron crocus. Only the red stigmas are harvested for culinary saffron; other parts of the plant should not be eaten.