Located in the Southern California Mojave Desert. We are considered one of the largest Saffron farms on the west coast, with only a handful of Saffron farms located in the USA. Most of the USA’s Saffron is imported from oversea’s. Iran being the largest producer, supplying 90% of the world’s Saffron. We have a very similar climate to Iran, which is why our saffron thrives here in the Southern California Mojave Desert.
What is Saffron?
Cultivating the world’s most expensive spice in your garden
Saffron is the bright red stigma of the flower Sativus Crocus. The 3 Saffron threads are removed from the flower and dried. This flower is planted, harvested, and processed by hand. Making it the worlds most expensive spice.
Saffron makes a healthy spice and is used to add color & flavor to many dishes- soups, seafood, rice, chicken, pastries, desert, butter, cheese, and so on.
Our Vision
Our hope is not only to supply our community with this amazing spice, but also to bring awareness to the world of farming and agriculture.
As gardeners, we seek exciting and fulfilling experiences that foster a deeper connection with nature. Cultivating saffron presents an alluring adventure that sparks joy at every stage. Planting the Crocus Sativus bulbs in the fall sets the stage for months of anticipation, concluding in the breathtaking sight of saffron flowers blooming in autumn. The joy of carefully hand-harvesting the precious crimson stigmas is unparalleled, creating a profound sense of accomplishment.
Saffron is surprisingly adaptable and low maintenance. Once established, the Crocus Sativus plant requires minimal care, making it a perfect choice for gardeners of all levels. Moreover, its small space requirements allow it to thrive in containers, beds, or small garden patches, making it an accessible option for urban gardeners as well.
In an age of growing environmental consciousness, cultivating saffron aligns beautifully with eco-friendly gardening practices. The plant is resilient and requires minimal water, promoting water conservation. Saffron cultivation does not rely on harmful chemicals or pesticides, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable garden. Additionally, saffron is beneficial to pollinators due to its vibrant purple flowers, which attracts bees, butterflies, and other insects, facilitating cross-pollination and promoting biodiversity in the ecosystem. The nectar-rich blooms serve as a valuable food source for these pollinators, supporting their populations and overall health.
We are quickly approaching the short planting window for saffron(Sativus Crocus). One amazing benefit to planting Sativus Crocus is that you get an immediate harvest. Unlike most bulbs that require you wait until the following growing season or next year for your first harvest. Saffron is typically planted between August- October and harvested October-December.
As gardeners, growing Saffron (Sativus Crocus) offers a delightful and rewarding experience that connects us with the future of sustainable and luxurious gardening.
WHY GROW SAFFRON?
* You can grow Saffron (Crocus Sativus) from zones 4-10.
* Saffron is a fall blooming crocus. Planting between Aug-Oct & harvesting Oct-Dec.
* Saffron is the most expensive spice.
* Saffron corms reproduce- new corms grow on old corms.
* Saffron provides taste & is a powerful dye.
* Saffron is a beautiful flower with a bright red & yellow pistol. When dried, these red stigmas make up the highly valuable spice, called Saffron.
* Saffron doesn’t require much water or nutrition. It’s an easy plant to care for.
* Saffron has very interesting medicinal properties.
* When stored well, saffron can be kept for many years.
* Saffron is a unique addition to the home garden, blooming in October- December.