Azafran
Ditaxis heterantha

Family: Euphorbiaceae

What it is like

A shrub. It grows 3 m tall. The leaves are alternate and 4-8 cm long. They are white and hairy on top. The flowers are small and pale yellow. The fruit is green and has 3 lobes. The seeds are dull brown and 3-5 mm across.

It is used as a saffron substitute.

Where it is found

It is a subtropical plant. It grows in semi-arid areas.

Countries/locations it is found in

Mexico

How it is used for food

An extract from the oil rich seeds is used to colour and flavour other foods.

Edible parts

Seed - flavouring

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Azafran, Azafrancillo, Azafran de bolita

Synonyms

Argythamnia argentea Brandegee; Argythamnia heterantha (Zucc.) Mull.Arg.;