Package Count: 5 bulbs per pack
The ‘Saffron’ crocus (Crocus sativus) is a fascinating and treasured fall-blooming corm prized for producing the world’s most expensive spice from its brilliant, vibrant red stigmas. Delicate lilac-purple, cup-shaped flowers emerge in autumn, featuring contrasting yellow stamens and the prominent, thread-like red styles that can be carefully hand-harvested and dried for culinary use. Compact and elegant, this unique plant is ideal for rock gardens, sunny borders, raised beds, or well-drained containers, offering both exquisite ornamental beauty and a rewarding homegrown harvest.
Plant Characteristics
- Color: Delicate lilac to violet-purple petals surrounding bright orange-red stigmas and yellow stamens.
- Bloom Type: Cup-shaped flowers borne individually or in small clusters close to the ground.
- Height: 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) tall.
- Fragrance: Lightly sweet, pleasant floral fragrance.
- Bloom Time: Fall (September to November).
- Hardiness: Zones 6 through 9 (can be grown in cooler zones with heavy winter mulch or in protected containers).
Growing & Planting Guide
- Timing: Plant corms in late summer to early fall (August to September) before the soil cools significantly.
- Depth: Plant 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) deep.
- Spacing: Space corms 3 to 4 inches (8 to 10 cm) apart.
- Sunlight: Full sun.
- Soil: Light, sandy, gravelly, and exceptionally well-draining soil; absolute avoidance of heavy, wet, or waterlogged conditions to prevent corm rot.
