8314. Saffron

Nomenclature

Crocus; Spanish saffron; French saffron.

Description and references

Stigmas of Crocus sativus L., Iridaceae. Habit. Western Asia, Southern Europe. Constit. About 1% volatile oil, picrocrocin—a bitter glucoside, crocin (polychroit), fixed oil, wax.

Properties

Flattish-tubular, almost thread-like stigmas ≈1.25 inches (3 cm) long; orange-brown color; strong, peculiar, aromatic odor; bitterish, aromatic taste.

Use

Coloring and flavoring.