The crocus is native to central and southern Europe, North Africa, Middle East, and central Asia. The flower is in the iris family. Hardy perennials, the flowers grow sell in woodlands, scrub, and meadows. Among about 80 species of crocus, about 30 are cultivated. Popular with gardeners because it blooms very early and is a single of the end of winter. Although most known for blooming in the spring, there are varieties that bloom in the autumn.

Saffron, the spice, comes from the stamens of Crocus sativus, a crocus species that blooms in the autumn.