Saffron (Crocus sativus)

Family: Iridaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Crocus sativus is a CORM growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf from October to May, in flower in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, butterflies. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring and yellow colouring for various foods such as bread, soups, sauces, rice and puddings. — The flower styles are commonly used as a flavouring and yellow colouring for various foods such as bread, soups, sauces, rice and puddings.; They are an essential ingredient of many traditional dishes such as paella, bouillabaisse, risotto milanese and various other Italian dishes.; The styles are extremely rich in riboflavin.; Yields per plant are extremely low, about 4000 stigmas yield 25g of saffron.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known in a truly wild location. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)