title: Botany, Taxonomy and Cytology of Crocus sativus series.
abstract: Saffron is produced from the dried styles of Crocus sativus L. (Iridaceae) which is unknown as wild plant, representing a sterile triploid. These belong to subgenus Crocus series Crocus sativus - series are closely related species; and are difficult to be separated taxonomically and have a complex cytology. Botany of C. sativus - series, taxonomy of their species and their infraspecific taxa are presented, and their distribution, ecology and phenology; full description and chromosome counts are provided with key to their identification.
authors: Drug Standardization Research Section, Central Research Institute - Ayurveda, Aamkho, Gwalior - 474 009, India.
authors: R B
authors: RB
authors: Saxena