crocus spice crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "crocus spice crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
SAFFRON: The world's most expensive spice, derived from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, making it the perfect answer for this clue.
More About "crocus spice crossword clue"
The "crocus spice" clue points directly to saffron, a highly prized spice harvested from the flower Crocus sativus. This plant is often referred to simply as the "saffron crocus." What makes saffron so unique and valuable is the labor-intensive process of harvesting its thread-like stigmas – it takes tens of thousands of flowers to produce just one pound of the spice.
Beyond its rarity, saffron is celebrated for its distinctive aroma, vibrant color, and slightly bitter taste. It's a staple in many international cuisines, from Spanish paella and Italian risotto to Indian biryani and French bouillabaisse. Its deep golden hue is also used as a natural dye, adding to its versatility and historical significance.
Understanding the botanical origin of spices like saffron can often provide the key to solving related crossword clues. When you encounter a clue that combines a plant with a product, consider the most famous or expensive derivative to quickly narrow down your options.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Break Down the Clue: For "crocus spice," identify the key elements: "crocus" (a type of flower) and "spice" (a flavor enhancer). This combination strongly suggests saffron.
- Consider Common Associations: Many crossword clues rely on well-known pairings. "Crocus" and "spice" almost exclusively point to saffron due to its unique origin.
- Check Letter Count: Once you have a potential answer like SAFFRON, verify its letter count against the puzzle's grid. If it fits, you're likely on the right track.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes clues are deceptively simple. For a direct clue like "crocus spice," the most straightforward answer is often correct.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any other spice from a crocus plant?
While various crocus species exist, only the Crocus sativus yields the valuable spice known as saffron. Other crocus varieties are cultivated for their ornamental flowers and do not produce a spice.
What makes saffron so expensive?
Saffron's high cost is due to the extreme labor intensity of its harvest. Each saffron crocus flower produces only three tiny stigmas, which must be painstakingly hand-picked. It takes thousands of flowers and many hours of manual labor to gather a small amount of the spice.
Can I grow saffron crocus at home?
Yes, Crocus sativus bulbs can be grown in temperate climates. They require well-drained soil and a sunny spot. While you can harvest your own saffron, the yield from a small home garden will be modest, typically enough for personal use rather than commercial quantities.