Crocosmia 'Lucifer' (25) plants
Common Name: Montbretia.
Zone: 5 to 9.
Full Sun to part shade.
Height: 36 to 42 inches tall, spread 12 to 18 inches.
Moderate growth, clump-forming plant from bulbs or corms.
Beginning in midsummer and continuing thru early fall, brilliant flame red flowers stand in rows on wiry, gracefully arched stems that are perfect for cutting. Crocosmia's broad, sword-like leaves are attractive even when the plants are not in bloom and, from a design standpoint, are effective for adding a tropical flair to the landscape.
Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit 1993.
Crocosmia performs in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil, that does not become waterlogged. Tolerant of summer heat and humidity. Its fleshy roots (corms) should be planted in spring 2 to 4 inches deep and 6 to 8 inches apart. Crocosmia has a tendency to quickly grow and overcrowd itself, and may need dividing every 2 to 3 years. Alternatively, offsets of the original plant may be lifted and moved.
Plants are generally only winter hardy to 0 F. In zones 1 through 4 (and probably 5 and 6), corms should be lifted and stored indoors over the winter, much like gladiolus, cannas or dahlias (do not allow them to dry out completely). In zones 5 through 7, deep winter mulch will help to protect the roots.
Attributes: Border plants, Container, Cut flowers (frequently used in commercial floral arrangements), Mass planting. Attracts hummingbirds. |
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