>Though the Iris family is generally thought to be poisonous; not only >saffron is eaten, the corms of some Crocus are eaten as if they were nuts. >IT IS IMPORTANT NOT TO CONFUSE COLCHICUM WITH CROCUS!!! In view of the ease with which lily pollen stains hands and clothes, and the bulbs are eaten in Asian countries, is this a possible and more readily available alternative to saffron as a food colourant? Brian Whyer, Buckinghamshire, England, zone ~8