Crocus sativus (saffron) bulb sizes explained
If you're thinking of growing saffron, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is what size bulbs to start with.
At Roco Saffron, we offer a carefully graded selection of Crocus sativus bulbs, ranging from 8/9 cm to 11/+ cm in circumference. Each size has different flowering potential, pricing, and ideal use case.
Whether you’re a backyard grower or managing a commercial plot, knowing the difference can help you choose the bulbs that best fit your goals.
Let’s break it all down.
Why bulb size matters
Saffron isn’t grown from seeds—it’s grown from corms, which are underground bulbs. The size of the bulb affects:
- The number of flowers in year one;
- The speed of multiplication;
- Your overall harvest volume in future years.
Bigger bulbs = more flowers = more saffron. It’s that simple.
And while all sizes will eventually multiply, larger bulbs give you a stronger head start—especially if you're looking to harvest saffron in the first year.
Saffron bulb sizes, compared
All sizes are measured by circumference (not diameter):
8/9 cm bulbs
Year 1: ✿
Year 2: ✿ ✿ ✿
Year 3: ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿
These smaller bulbs are great for long-term growing. They’ll multiply well, but won’t produce much saffron the first year.
Best for: Patient home growers, research plots, or very large-scale planting on a budget.
9/10 cm bulbs
Year 1: ✿ ✿ ✿
Year 2: ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿
Year 3: ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿
A nice balance between price and performance. You’ll get some flowers in the first year and strong multiplication after.
Best for: New growers who want results, but can wait for full yields in year two.
10/+ cm bulbs
Year 1: ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿
Year 2: ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿
Year 3: ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿
These are premium-size bulbs. Expect consistent flowering in year one, great multiplication, and strong harvest potential.
Best for: Serious home growers or small-scale commercial farms looking for fast returns.
11/+ cm (Jumbo) bulbs
Year 1: ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿
Year 2: ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿
Year 3: ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿ ✿
These are the largest saffron bulbs available on the market, and we reserve them for growers who prioritize maximum first-year yield.
Best for: Commercial growers, chefs, or anyone launching a saffron brand and needing results fast.
The Roco Saffron advantage
We don’t just sort by size—we go a step further. Each season, we treat our bulbs with a climate-controlled temperature protocol designed to boost first-year flowering. This has shown remarkable results in both flowering and overall corm health, earning high praise from professional and home growers alike.
So… which bulb size is right for you?
Here’s a quick guide:
| You are... | Your best match |
|---|---|
| A hobbyist with patience | 8/9 cm |
| A first-time grower with a small garden | 9/10 cm |
| A small-scale farmer wanting a quick yield | 10/+ cm |
| A commercial grower or high-end chef | 11/+ cm |
Need help deciding? Contact us and we’ll recommend the perfect size for your project.
Not all saffron bulbs are created equal. Whether you’re growing 50 or 50,000, choosing the right size sets you up for success.
At Roco Saffron, we carefully grade and pack our Crocus sativus bulbs to match your goals—whether that’s long-term multiplication, first-year flowering, or maximum commercial yield.
Ready to get started? Explore our saffron bulbs or request a quote for a bulk order. We’re here to help you grow with confidence.