About 3 years ago we built a raised bed and planted saffron crocuses.They grow most anywhere as long as you get cooler fall weather:
http://www.americanmeadows.com/saffron-crocus-bulbs
they are on sale right now.I planted 45 bulbs and got a good bit from them last year.This year I expect even more.:) When the flower blooms in Sept you pull the red strings out of them, lay them on a paper plate and let them dry for a few days then store in a cool dry dark place.I picked up a few little tea tins a few years back and use those to store it in.
That’s nice, September crocuses, think I’ll try it. Also, looking at the river by the tower, it seems it might mark a ford, as you can see signs of rocks in the current.