Wild saffron crocus
Crocus cartwrightianus
Family: Iridaceae
What it is like
A low plant which forms corms. It keeps growing from year to year. There are 5-11 leaves and these are grey-green. They are 0.5-1.5 mm wide. The flowers are pale or deep lilac-purple. They are strongly veined on the outside. They can be a darker colour towards the base. The stamen have yellow anthers and a white or purple stalk. The style is divided into 3 very long and deep red branches. They are flared at the tip. Each is 15-27 mm long.
Where it is found
It grows on rocky hillsides and in grassy places.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Europe, Greece, Mediterranean
How it is used for food
The flower styles are sometimes collected for saffron.
Edible parts
Styles, stigma, flowers, spice
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Cartwright saffron