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.