Objectives of the Project

The objective of this project is to create, characterise and exploit a germplasm collection (bank) in Crocus species, including saffron Crocus (C. sativus Linn.). The actions and means involved are:

1. Collection, multiplication, conservation and documentation of Crocus genetic resources.

2. Characterisations and evaluation of Crocus genetic resources.

3. Application of the Crocus germplasm information and banked accessions. more...

Saffron is the most valuable food product per gram anyware and one of the oldest organic crops and traditional (although unproven) medicinal plants, as well as a significant part of the Eurasian cultural inheritance ...more

Relevance to the objectives of the work programme:

WHY SAFFRON?

1. Saffron is highly valuable. Medicinal and aromatic plants have been increasing in importance to society...

2. Saffron is an European crop in danger of extinction. Saffron production has decreased rapidly in many European countries...

3. Other Crocuses are also economically important. There are other crocus species used extensively in specialized gardening...

4. Saffron use is increasing, but some troubles. Saffron consumption is rising but not as fast as production...

4. Saffron is subject to strong genetic erosion. The lost of land surface dedicated to saffron crop in many areas has resulted in a corresponding genetic erosion...

more...

WHAT TO DO?