SAFFRON

The prepared stigmata of the Crocus sativus. The stigmata of this purple crocus are of a deep orange colour, and when in quantity have a peculiar and very characteristic odour; they are used in medicine, chiefly as a rich yellow or orange colouring matter. Saffron is now chiefly imported from the south of Europe, especially Spain; it was formerly largely cultivated in this country in the vicinity of Saffron VValden in Cambridge shire. Saffron is often largely adulterated with the petals of other plants,especially with those of the marigold. [s. 1087]