Crocus sativus - Autumn Flowering

One of the most fascinating and rewarding bulbs you can grow, Crocus sativus is the famous Saffron Crocus, producing beautiful lilac-purple flowers in autumn and yielding the world's most valuable spice.

Each elegant bloom carries three vivid crimson-red stigmas, which are carefully harvested and dried to produce saffron. Prized for over 3,000 years, saffron has been used in cooking, medicine and dyeing throughout the ancient world and remains one of the most sought-after culinary ingredients today.

Flowering in autumn when many other plants are beginning to fade, the delicate goblet-shaped flowers bring welcome colour to borders, gravel gardens, raised beds and containers. The blooms are held above slender grassy foliage and are particularly effective when planted in generous groups.

Easy to grow in a sunny, well-drained position, the Saffron Crocus will gradually multiply over time, producing increasing numbers of flowers each year. Even if you never harvest the saffron itself, the flowers are beautiful enough to justify a place in any garden.

A wonderful bulb that combines history, beauty and practicality in equal measure.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Crocus sativus corms in late summer to early autumn, ideally between August and September, for flowering the same autumn.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny, sheltered position with well-drained soil. Saffron Crocus thrives in borders, raised beds, gravel gardens and containers. Good drainage is essential, particularly during winter.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant corms approximately 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space corms about 10 cm (4 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve heavy soils with grit or sharp sand and incorporate compost before planting.

Watering:
Water after planting to help settle the soil. Thereafter, only water during prolonged dry spells, as Crocus sativus prefers relatively dry conditions once established.

Aftercare Tips:

• Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
• Lift and divide congested clumps every few years if flowering decreases.
• Harvest saffron threads on dry mornings shortly after flowers open.

Top Tip:
Plant in groups of at least 15–20 corms for a spectacular autumn display and a worthwhile saffron harvest.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
October – November (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
4–6" (10–15cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun

Hardy Perennial