Introducing...
Crocosmia
Botanical name: Crocosmia
Common name: Crocosmia, montbretia
Crocosmias are multi-flowered perennials that come in a range of fiery colours. Easy to grow, they thrive in a range of soil types, in sun or partial shade. Plant with dahlias, salvias and cannas for a sumptuous mid- to late-summer display.
Looks
From clumps of sword-like or pleated leaves, upright, arching stems carry small, funnel-shaped flowers that open in succession. Most are orange, but there are also yellow- and red-flowered cultivars. Some have bronze-tinted foliage.
Likes
Crocosmias grow well in most soil types, but do best in soil that retains some moisture in summer. They prefer full sun, but also tolerate dappled or light shade.
Dislikes
Growth may be stunted in very dry soil. They won’t flower well in deep shade.
Did you know?
Some crocosmias can become invasive. Common montbretia (Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora) has ‘escaped’ from gardens into the wild, where it can crowd out more delicate native species. So it’s best not to grow it if your garden adjoins open countryside. To avoid spreading it in your garden, don’t compost unwanted plants.
Growing guide
How to grow crocosmia
All the information you’ll need to grow and care for crocosmias in your garden.
Crocosmias we recommend
Crocosmia 'Severn Sunrise'
montbretia 'Severn Sunrise'
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Crocosmia masoniorum (L. Bolus) N.E. Br.
giant montbretia
- 1–1.5 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Crocosmia 'Severn Sunrise'
montbretia 'Severn Sunrise'
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Crocosmia masoniorum (L. Bolus) N.E. Br.
giant montbretia
- 1–1.5 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Useful advice
Bulbs: planting
Bulbs: propagation
Glasshouse red spider mite
Perennial borders: choosing plants
Perennials: cutting back
Perennials: dividing
Get involved
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