There are many different types of the world famous Crocus genus available. Some are fall, winter, or spring blooming. These are fall bloomers. Saffron is the world's most expensive spice, and Saffron Crocus's are the source for it. It is a delicious and colorful seasoning used in breads, desserts, and main dishes, such as Indian Curry and Spanish paella throughout the world. Saffron Crocuses begin blooming in September and normally continue through October. The purple flowers have deep purple veining. We ship these fall flowering Crocus's as soon as we can, as they should be planted right away. In just days, you'll see them poking up through the ground, and before you know it, they're in bloom. Label the planting area so that the bulbs do not get pulled up accidently during spring weeding. Harvesting Saffron - the rare valuable spice - is easy: simply pick the red stigmas on each flower once the flowers are fully opened. Plant about two dozen bulbs to supply enough of the spice for the first year. Then, with each successive year, they will multiply. Dig, divide, and replant after about five years.