crocus

noun5

1. •
   A perennial flowering plant (of the genus Crocus in the Iridaceae family). Saffron is obtained from the stamens of Crocus sativus.
2. •
   Any of various similar flowering plants, such as autumn crocus and prairie crocus.
3. •
   Burlap.
4. •
   (no longer used) A deep yellow powder, the oxide of some metal (especially iron), calcined to a red or deep yellow colour.
5. •
   (slang, no longer used) A fraudulent doctor; a quack.

   • The characteristics of the crocus or vagabond quack doctor appear to find a sardonically appropriate origin in the Erse cruach-bhas, a bloody death. — 1887