Crocus
Crocus neapolitanus
Family: Iridaceae
What it is like
A plant that keeps growing from year to year. It grows 12 cm high and spreads 7 cm wide. The stems is slender, erect and flowering. The leaves are long, green and narrow. The flowers are white to purple. They are tube shaped and expand. They occur singly at the top of the plant.
There are about 80 Crocus species.
Where it is found
It needs a well-drained soil. It needs an open sunny position. It is resistant to frost but damaged by drought.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Balkans, Bosnia, Europe (country/location of origin), France, Italy, Mediterranean
How it is used for food
The fruit are eaten as a snack.
Edible parts
Fruit, flowers - spice
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from division.
Its other names
Local names
Croco, Safran, Zafferano selvatico