Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
SAF'FRON. Song 4:14. Undoubtedly this is the saffron crocus (Crocus sativus), which, with other species of this plant, abounds in Palestine. This kind is in high repute as a perfume; hence its mention among spices. The pistils of its blossoms, gathered, dried, and pressed into cakes or ground, became the saffron of commerce, which is used as an orange dye and is also employed in medicine in the East. This substance is also valued for adding
flavor and aroma to food and drink.