Crocosmia masoniorum (L. Bolus) N.E. Br.
giant montbretia
A corm forming clumps of narrow leaves and branched sprays of upward-facing, brilliant orange-red flowers 5cm in length, on stems to 1.2m in height, from midsummer
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Orange Red | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Iridaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Crocosmia are deciduous cormous perennials with erect, sword-shaped leaves and branched spikes of showy, funnel-shaped flowers in summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- South Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Plant 8 to 10cm deep in moderately fertile, humus-rich soil. Lift and divide congested clumps to maintain vigour. Has the potential to become a nuisance in some gardens if not managed well
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe or by division in early spring as growth begins
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Gravel garden
- Prairie planting
- Cottage and informal garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
- Wall side borders
- Cut flowers
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.