Unfortunately we don't have this information, since saffron Crocus is not widely grown in Maryland (to our knowledge), aside from perhaps ornamental value (as with other Crocus species). We aren't knowledgeable about cultivars, if there are any. (Differences in saffron at the point of purchase may be due instead to drying/processing differences, or influences in quality or flavor from where they are grown, instead of genetic cultivar differences.)

You may want to reach out to two people on the University of Maryland Eastern Shore's Small Farm Outreach Program team: Dr. Nadine Burton-Stubbs and/or Henriette den Ouden. Both have experience trying to cultivate uncommon crops that have value for various cultural groups in our region, though we don't know if they have tried saffron.

Penn State has a web page with cultivation tips that might be useful. A short Oregon State article notes that where the plant is grown may influence the harvest flavor, and since Maryland's climate isn't the same as where saffron is commercially grown, that may be a factor to consider. NC State cautions that the flower can be "subject to fungal disease if the blooming period coincides with a wet period or root rot if planted in a wet location. Squirrels, mice and other rodents may eat the corms." Our fall weather of late (since this crocus species blooms in autumn) doesn't tend to be very rainy, so that might help with avoiding fungal outbreaks, but it sounds like you may need to protect the planting from wildlife damage.

Miri