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AGM plants have been through a rigorous trial and assessment programme. They are:
This plant will provide nectar and pollen for bees and the many other types of pollinating insects.
It is included in an evolving list of plants carefully researched and chosen by RHS experts. Divided into 3 groups these lists, linked below, are maintained by a team of RHS staff and are reviewed annually.
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Other common names saffron saffron crocus
blood of Thoth St Valentine's rose
Synonyms Crocus sativus var. cashmirianus
Family Iridaceae
Genus Crocus are dwarf, deciduous perennials growing from a corm, with linear leaves usually with a silvery central stripe, and goblet-shaped, sometimes fragrant flowers in autumn or early spring
Details C. sativus is an autumn-flowering corm. It produces large, goblet flowers in pale purple with a red stigma
Plant range E. Mediterranean
Foliage Deciduous
Hardiness
All ratings refer to the UK growing conditions unless otherwise stated. Minimum temperature ranges (in degrees C) are shown in brackets
H6
Full Sun
Aspect South-facing
Exposure Exposed or Sheltered
Chalk
Loam
Sand
MoistureWell-drained
SoilChalk, Loam, Sand
pHAlkaline, Neutral
Ultimate height Up to 10 cm
Ultimate spread 0-0.1 metre
Time to ultimate height 2-5 years
Cultivation Requires a sunny, free-draining site in the border. Plant 10cm (4in) deep. Pick stigmas for drying as a flavouring and food colourant
Propagation Propagate by division of clumps or by propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types Flower borders and beds Gravel Garden Patio & Container Plants Mediterranean Climate Plants
Pruning None required
Pests Beware of mice, voles, squirrels and sparrows
Diseases Corms are susceptible to fungal diseases
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saffron
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