Crocus sativus (Saffron Crocus): Grow the World's Most Expensive Spice

The saffron crocus (Crocus sativus) is a unique autumn-blooming corm that produces 1–5 rich lilac flowers with dark purple veins. Its claim to fame is the long, deep red styles (stigmas) that, when dried, become saffron—the world's most expensive spice. It takes about 14,000 stigmas to yield one ounce of saffron threads.

Growing Requirements

• Planting: 3–4 inches deep in late summer.
• Soil: Gritty, poor to moderately fertile, well-drained.
• Climate: Prefers hot, dry summers; generally won't flower well in cool, wet areas.
• Dormancy: Keep dry during summer dormancy.

Important Notes

Plants may bloom well the first year but sparsely thereafter. Sterile; increases only by division. Protect corms from mice, voles, squirrels, and birds.

At a Glance