UPSC Prelims 2009 Q139: Science & Technology – Biology
In making the saffron spice,
which one of the following parts of the plant is used ?
- (a) Leaf
- (b) Petal
- (c) Sepal
- (d) Stigma
Answer: (d) Stigma
Explanation
Which plant part gives us saffron
This highly prized spice comes from a very specific, delicate part of a particular flower.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| (a) Leaf | Incorrect | Not the part used for saffron |
| (b) Petal | Incorrect | Also not the part used |
| (c) Sepal | Incorrect | Also not the part used |
| (d) Stigma | Correct | Saffron is made from the dried stigma (the thread-like female reproductive part) of the Crocus sativus flower |
Saffron production facts:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Plant part used | Stigma |
| Source flower | Crocus sativus |
| Why expensive | Each flower yields only 3 tiny stigma threads, requiring vast quantities for a small amount of spice |
Answer: (d) Stigma.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The leaf is not used for saffron production.
- (b) Incorrect. The petal is also not used.
- (c) Incorrect. The sepal is also not used.
- (d) CORRECT. Saffron is made from the plant's stigma.
Key point
Saffron spice is made from the dried STIGMA of the Crocus sativus flower — not its leaf, petal, or sepal.
Remember
Saffron is made from the plant's stigma.
Common mistakes
- Confusing the stigma (the actual saffron source) with other flower parts like petals or sepals.
- Not knowing the specific Crocus sativus source plant for saffron.
- Underestimating why saffron is so expensive — each flower yields only a tiny amount of usable stigma.
Exam tip
Saffron = the dried stigma of Crocus sativus. A specific, well-known spice-sourcing fact.
Sources
- Spices Board of India — Saffron (Crocus sativus): cultivation and processing
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — saffron