Crocus (mythology)

In Classical mythology, Crocus (Ancient Greek: Κρόκος, Krókos) was a mortal youth who was changed by the gods into a saffron flower.

[2][3][4] In another variation of the myth, Crocus was said to be a companion of Hermes and was accidentally killed by the god in a game of discus when he unexpectedly stood up.

As the unfortunate youth's blood dripped on the soil, the saffron flower came to be.

[5][6][7] The myth is similar to that of Apollo and Hyacinthus, and may indeed be a variation or modelled after it thereof.

Rouse describes the tale of Crocus as being from the late Classical period and little-known.