Overhead view of Saffron Crocus in a pot on a white background.
Saffron Crocus blooms with red saffron threads. Image courtesy of Shutterstock.
Saffron Crocus blooms with saffron harvested from the crocus. Image courtesy of Shutterstock.
Detail of Saffron Crocus bloom growing in a pot.
Saffron Crocus blooming in a terra-cotta pot against a light green background.
Overhead view of Saffron Crocus growing in a pot.
Overhead view of Saffron Crocus in a pot on a white background.
Saffron Crocus blooms with red saffron threads. Image courtesy of Shutterstock.
Saffron Crocus blooms with saffron harvested from the crocus. Image courtesy of Shutterstock.
Detail of Saffron Crocus bloom growing in a pot.
Saffron Crocus blooming in a terra-cotta pot against a light green background.
Overhead view of Saffron Crocus growing in a pot.

Crocus Bulbs,
Saffron (25 Bulbs)

4.863 ReviewsSKU: #SAF101
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Description

(Crocus sativus). Talk about a cash crop! The dried stigmas and styles of this fall-blooming crocus are known as one of the most expensive spices by weight; now you can grow your own saffron in your garden. Saffron is revered for its distinctive flavor (described as both sweet and slightly bitter) and rich, heady aroma. It works well in both sweet desserts and strong-flavored savory dishes and is popular in many cuisines, from Spanish and Persian to Indian. Saffron has a remarkable history; it is said that Cleopatra liked her bath scented with saffron, and Buddhist monks used it to dye their robes a vivid yellow-orange color.

Caution: Only the red stigmas are edible. The leaves, flowers, and bulbs of this plant are poisonous if ingested. Do not take internally.

Growing Tips: Saffron crocus grows best in full sunlight and well-draining soil, ideally enriched with organic matter. It prefers dry summers and cooler autumns, similar to Mediterranean climates. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly alkaline (6.5-7.5). Avoid waterlogged soils as crocus corms are prone to rot. Most corms bloom six to eight weeks after planting, though some settle in and wait until their second autumn.

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Plant Details

Botanical Name
Crocus sativus
Life Cycle
Perennial
Sun Requirement
6–8 hr.
Days to Maturity
42–56
Planting Depth
3–4 in.
Plant Spacing
4 in.
Ideal Temperature
40–70°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

Plant saffron crocus bulbs in early fall, ideally about 6-8 weeks before the first frost. This typically falls around September or October, depending on your region (best for USDA zones 6-9. Check your local frost/freeze dates to adjust the planting time accordingly. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post "Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources."

How to Sow and Plant

Plant the corms 3-4 inches deep, spaced 4 inches apart, with the pointed end up. In beds, ensure good drainage and mix in organic matter. For container planting, use a pot at least 10 inches deep​. After planting, water thoroughly, then water sparingly through the rest of the growing season.

How to Grow

Autumn crocus generally bloom 6-8 weeks after being planted, but sometimes they may wait until the second year to bloom. During its dormant summer phase, the soil should remain dry. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer after blooming or during the spring. Avoid watering when the plant is dormant to prevent bulb rot. Dig up and separate corms every 4-6 years to prevent overcrowding.

How to Save Seeds

  • Crocus are not easily propagated from seeds, so the bulbs, called corms, are usually used instead.
  • Saffron crocus corms will spread, and you will probably need to gently dig up and separate the corms every 4-6 years to prevent overcrowding.
  • Crocus corms are hardy and will perennialize in USDA zones 6-9.
  • In colder regions, corms must be dug up and stored indoors for winter.
  • Before the ground freezes, gently dig up crocus corms and store them in a container with sand or dry peat moss.
  • Keep in a cool dry location until the following spring.

FAQ

How long does it take for Saffron crocus to bloom?

It typically blooms 6-8 weeks after planting in fall, but sometimes it may wait until the second year to bloom.

Can Saffron crocus be grown in containers?

Yes, it grows well in containers with well-draining soil. Bring the containers into a greenhouse or garage in colder regions where it can't overwinter in the ground.

How do I harvest saffron?

Harvest the fragrant saffron spice by carefully collecting the three red threads, called stigmas, from the Saffron crocus flowers in the morning, after they bloom, which is typically in mid to late fall. Spread out on a paper towel or similar surface and let them dry completely before storing them in an airtight glass jar. Keep in mind that only the red Saffron crocus stigmas are edible. Leaves, flowers, and corms of crocus are considered poisonous if ingested!

Shop our saffron crocus bulbs.

Customer reviews

4.8 / 5 63 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Easy and low fuss: Plant in fall, water once or twice, then leave them alone.

  • Blooms within weeks: Many see flowers four to six weeks after fall planting.

  • Corms multiply: Each corm divides into several more by the next year.

  • Sweet, fragrant blooms: Blooms smell like honey and draw the bees.

  • Heads up: Fall bloomer; some corms wait until the second autumn to flower.

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