[aimor]

Yes, a couple years ago I started a few beds of saffron at home (zone 7). They're crocus, and bulbs, so I figured why not. I ordered online and planted in the fall and they all flowered that year. I went out after work and picked the saffron by hand, not nearly as difficult as blogs would have you think it is (no, they don't need to "be harvested at mid-morning, when the flower is fully open to the Sun"). Just pinch with your fingers and pluck. I harvested about 1 tablespoon (didn't weigh it), worth maybe 1/3 the cost of the bulbs.

The next year two of my three locations came back with strong leaves and offshoots, but almost nothing flowered. A big disappointment. This year I'll split them up (or maybe split up just one bed) and see what happens. Despite this, I'd encourage anyone in the right climate to give it a shot.

Also, if you're looking for easy expensive spices to grow, try bread (opium) poppy.