Saffron Crocus

Saffron crocus or autumn crocus, is a species of flowering plant in the iris family Iridaceae. A cormous autumn-flowering cultivated perennial, it is best known for the culinary use of its floral stigmas as the spice saffron (the most expensive spice in the world). A welcome pop of colour to any border or lawn.

 The intense red stigmas contain a water-soluble carotenoid pigment called crocin. When extracted, it produces a luminous golden-yellow to rich orange-red hue for dyeing.