Crocus sativus
Common Names
- Chinese: 番红花
- English: Saffron Crocus
- Scientific: Crocus sativus
Taxonomy
Eukaryota; Viridiplantae; Streptophyta; Streptophytina; Embryophyta; Tracheophyta; Euphyllophyta; Spermatophyta; Magnoliopsida; Mesangiospermae; Liliopsida; Petrosaviidae; Asparagales; Iridaceae; Crocoideae; Croceae; Crocus
Genome References
Xu Z, Chen S, Wang Y, et al. Crocus genome reveals the evolutionary origin of crocin biosynthesis. Acta Pharm Sin B. 2024;14(4):1878-1891.
![[Crocus sativus]](../image/Speicesimage/Crocus sativus.png)
Crocus sativus
Description
Crocus sativus, or saffron crocus, is a small perennial in the Iridaceae family, cultivated for its valuable saffron spice, derived from the red stigmas of its purple flowers. Native to Southwest Asia, it blooms in autumn, preferring well-drained soil and full sun. The plant grows 4-6 inches tall and is ideal for rock gardens or containers. Saffron production is labor-intensive, as each flower yields only three stigmas, hand-harvested for culinary and medicinal use. The plant is drought-tolerant and requires a dormant summer period, making it suitable for Mediterranean climates.