Crocosmia Plant Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners

Article by Dean Ravenscroft, Ph.D. - Updated 22nd Nov 2023

In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Crocosmia plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.

Montbretia, Copper Tip, & Falling Star: Cultivation & Garden Use

Although Crocosmia are half hardy bulbs, they are usually grown as annuals by gardeners.

They have leaves that look like swords (ensiform). These carry inflorescences that have red or orange funnel like flowers.

Crocosmia by Lizjones112.

Crocosmia comes into bloom in the summer months.

They make ideal border plants.

Crocosmia by Crinklecrankle.com.

Common names for Crocosmia include Montbretia, Falling Star, and Copper tip.

Commonly Grown Crocosmia Species Photographs and Plant Identification

Crocosmia aurea

Crocosmia aurea (Falling Stars / Valentine Flower / Montbretia), photograph by Bernard DUPONT; CC.

Crocosmia masoniorum

Crocosmia masoniorum syn. Tritonia masoniorum

Crocosmia masoniorum (Giant Montbretia), photograph by Dinesh Valke; CC.

Crocosmia paniculata

Crocosmia paniculata (Aunt Eliza), photograph by peganum; CC.

Crocosmia pottsii

Crocosmia pottsii (Potts' Montbretia), picture by peganum; CC.

Commonly Grown Crocosmia Cultivars

Crocosmia Lucifer

Crocosmia 'Lucifer' cultivar, picture by Rudoni Productions; CC.

How to Grow Montbretia, Copper Tip, and other Crocosmia species

It is perhaps easiest to grow Crocosmia from corms. These should be planted at about 10 cm (4 inches) apart, at a depth of between 10 and 15 cm (4 to 6 inches).

If growing from seeds, then they should be sown in the spring. Simply cover the seeds with topsoil.

It may prove easier to start off indoors from seeds. They should be started off about seven weeks before due to be put out, after the last frost of the spring.

They typically take from one to three months to germinate, at about 15 degrees Centigrade (59°F).

Once growing nicely, the Crocosmia seedlings can be transplanted into a location that is a sunny or partially shaded area of the garden.

Once established, the plants should be divided every three years.

Caring for Crocosmia in the Garden

If you live in a very cold area, then the corms of Crocosmia should be brought indoors in the winter. Store in a cool place.

It usually takes about two years until a Montbretia plant will bear flowers.

Common Questions

How many members does the Crocosmia genus have?

The Crocosmia genus includes around 12 species of bulbous plants, known for their bright, iris-like flowers.

Do members of Crocosmia make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Yes, Crocosmia plants are excellent for adding a burst of color to borders and beds. Their flowers are also great for cutting and attracting hummingbirds.

Which Crocosmia species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

The most commonly grown is Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora (Montbretia), prized for its arching stems of fiery-colored flowers.

Are members of the Crocosmia plant genus fragrant?

Some Crocosmia species and hybrids have a light, pleasing fragrance, although they are primarily grown for their showy blooms.

What is the perfect location to grow Crocosmia?

Crocosmia prefer full sun to partial shade and rich, well-drained soil. They do well in borders, containers, or near water features.

Is Crocosmia invasive in the USA?

Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora is considered invasive in some areas of the Pacific Northwest due to its spreading habit.

How do I remove Crocosmia plants from my garden?

To remove Crocosmia, dig up the corms and offsets. Ensure complete removal, as left fragments can regenerate.

Summary

The Crocosmia genus, part of the Iridaceae family, is native to southern and eastern Africa. These perennial plants, also known as montbretia, are recognized for their bright, fiery, trumpet-shaped flowers on arching stems that bloom in summer.

To cultivate Crocosmia, plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil. They can be grown from corms planted in the spring. Regular watering is necessary, but they are quite drought-tolerant once established. They make excellent cut flowers and are often used in borders or containers for a burst of summer color.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Crocosmia plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ Iridaceae growing guides: How to grow Blue-eyed Grass, Libertia plant, Tritonia plant, and Lapeirousia plants.