Saffron Crocus
Crocus sativus
Saffron Crocus produces the world's most valuable spice from its red stigmas. The purple fall-blooming flowers symbolize wealth, happiness, and luxury across cultures.
Iridaceae (Iris family)
Fall (October to November), autumn-flowering
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Cultural Significance
The Saffron Crocus blooms in vibrant colors, often purple or lilac. It symbolizes happiness and wealth in various cultures. This flower has so much importance among the Egyptians and Greeks and it was considered a symbol of eternal love and affection. Historically prized by royalty, saffron has been worth more than gold, making the flower a symbol of ultimate luxury and prosperity.Botanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Low water in summer dormancy, moderate in growing season
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Alkaline, Rocky soils
Expert Growing Tips
Plant corms in late summer for fall blooms
Requires dry summer dormancy period
Harvest stigmas early morning for saffron
Multiply by dividing corm clusters
Protect from rodents that eat corms
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Rock gardens and alpine plantings
- Fall-blooming bulb gardens
- Mediterranean-style gardens
- Commercial saffron cultivation
- Specialty spice gardens
Traditional Uses
- Saffron used as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
- Traditional use for mood enhancement
- May support eye health and cognitive function
- Used in Ayurvedic and Persian traditional medicine
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Saffron Crocus
what does saffron crocus symbolize?
Saffron crocus symbolizes wealth, luxury, and happiness, representing prosperity and abundance due to the precious saffron spice derived from its stigmas.
when does saffron crocus bloom?
Saffron crocus blooms in fall, typically October to November, producing purple flowers when most other plants are going dormant.
how do you harvest saffron from crocus?
Harvest the three red stigmas from each flower early in the morning when flowers are fully open, requiring about 150 flowers for 1 gram of saffron.
why is saffron so expensive?
Saffron is expensive because each flower produces only three stigmas, and harvesting must be done by hand, making it the world's most labor-intensive spice.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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