SAFFRON

The prepared stigmata of the Crocus satiaus. Tue stigmata.• Jiis purple crocer are of a grange colour, and when in quantity have a peculiar and pery 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 Walden in Cambridge shire. Saffron is often largely adulterated with the petals of other plants, especially with those of the marigold. [s. 1096]