Saffron Crocus (Crocus sativus)

Saffron Crocus (Crocus sativus)Hardy, early to mid fall flowering bulb Description: Produces 1 5 widely opened, rich lilac flowers with dark purple veins on short stems; leaves are borne with or shortly after flowers Habit: Flowering stem 3 5 inches high Culture: Prefers well drained soil and full sun to light shade; plant 3 4 inches deep Hardiness: USDA Zones 6 through 9 Jefferson documented Although in cultivation since Roman times, the Saffron Crocus is not known to exist in the

late spring to summer-blooming

this eastern North American native is very desirable in the shade garden

Publication date:  February 25

Description: Rose pink flowers borne in whorls on tall stalks in late summer

Its cultivation in Europe and Britain dates to the early 1500's and it maintained its association with ancient Roman superstition and mystery well into the seventeenth century

and its fruit was prized as an excellent winter keeper and useful for cider

Jefferson-documented: This plant was documented by Thomas Jefferson in his Garden Book

Culture: Prefers full sun to part shade and well-drained garden soil

and memoranda relating to his gardens at Monticello and Poplar Forest

moist soil

dark green leaves are grown for culinary purposes

Native to the seacoast of Great Britain