Croceus
/KROH-see-us/🏷️ Taxonomy●● Intermediate
Also known as: crocea, croceum
A color epithet describing the deep, warm orange-yellow of saffron — the spice derived from Crocus sativus stigmas. It implies a richer, more orange-toned yellow than luteus or flavus. Appears as croceus (masculine), crocea (feminine), or croceum (neuter).
Etymology
From Latin croceus, meaning "saffron-colored" or "saffron-yellow," from crocus (saffron), from Greek krokos (saffron crocus).
Example
“Hemerocallis 'Crocea' and various Rudbeckia selections described as crocea carry the characteristic deep, warm orange-yellow of saffron — richer and more saturated than a simple pale yellow.”