Moroccan villagers embark on annual two-week harvest for Saffron

Morocco is among the world's top 5 saffron producers, with output of 6.8 tons last year

Last updated: November 14, 2019 | 10:06

Compiled by Nathaniel Lacsina, Digital Content Producer

2 MIN READ

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Villagers collect Saffron flowers at dawn during harvest season in Askaoun, a small village near Taliouine, in Morocco's Middle Atlas Mountains.

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The sun sets behind Saffron-rich Askaoun. Morocco is among the world's top 5 saffron producers, with output of 6.8 tons last year, though Iran is by far the largest producer.

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Villagers pick Saffron flowers at dawn. The saffron plants bloom for only two weeks a year and the flowers, each containing three crimson stigmas, become useless if they blossom, putting pressure on the women to work quickly and steadily.

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A boy plays in his family's home after sunrise during Saffron harvest season.

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A family separates Saffron stigma from petals shortly after harvesting.

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Biya Idbouali, 60, a villager who is part of a women Saffron cooperative.

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Villagers rest for a moment as they collect Saffron flowers at dawn.

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Biya Tamir, 60, picks Saffron flowers at dawn.

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Saffron flowers are laid on a table before the red stigma is separated.

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Biya Tamir, 60, and her grandson, share a moment after picking saffron flowers.

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A family picks Saffron stigma shortly after harvesting.

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Fatima Aït Tahadousht, 50, displays a basket of freshly collected Saffron flowers.

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Biya Tamir, 60, a villager who is part of a women Saffron cooperative, poses for a portrait during harvest season.

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Boys play football near Askaoun, a small village near Taliouine, in Morocco's Middle Atlas Mountains.

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A basket of Saffron flowers is seen at a farm as villagers collect Saffron flowers.

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Women pick Saffron flowers at dawn during harvest season

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