croci

Croci are members of the genus Crocus in the iris family (Iridaceae). The genus comprises around 90 species of perennial, leaf-shedding geophytes that grow from corms. The name crocus comes from the Greek krokos. Croci are cultivated and naturalized in many temperate regions and are valued for their colorful flowers and, in the case of the saffron crocus, for the spice saffron.

Botanical description and ecology: Crocus plants produce one to several flowering stems bearing cup-shaped flowers with six petal-like tepals. Colors range widely, including purple, violet, blue, yellow, and white, often with contrasting throats or markings. Each flower contains three stamens and a three-locular ovary; the style extends to the stigma, which in some species is divided. The plants typically flower in autumn or spring, depending on species and climate. Leaves are usually narrow and linear, appearing after flowering in many species. The corms are underground storage organs with fibrous tunics and are the primary means of survival from year to year.

Distribution and cultivation: Croci are native to regions of southern Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, with many species adapted to the Mediterranean climate. They are widely cultivated as ornamental plants in temperate gardens due to their early or autumnal blooms. The saffron crocus, Crocus sativus, is cultivated specifically for saffron, the dried stigmas of the flower; it is triploid and effectively propagated by corm division.

Uses and symbolism: Croci are popular for garden displays and mass plantings, providing early spring or autumn color. Saffron, derived from Crocus sativus stigmas, is a valued spice and coloring agent in culinary traditions. Some crocus species contain toxic compounds and should not be ingested.