Montbretia (Crocosmia  × crocosmiiflora) krow-KOZ-mee-ah krow-koz-mee-ih-FLOOR-ah Synonyms:  Crocosmia aurea × Crocosmia pottsii Genus:  Crocosmia Montbretia looks like a small gladiolus until it blooms in late summer, when abundant sprays of orange, gold, or yellow star-shaped flowers are held by gracefully thin, arching, zigzag stems rising from a cluster of pale green, sword-shaped leaves. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Sometimes invasive. Excellent cut flowers. Care:  This South African native thrives in warm, south-facing locations with good drainage. Site near a wall where not reliably hardy. Apply a thick layer of mulch in winter. Lift and divide clumps in spring to maintain vigor. Propagation:  Divide in spring. Problems:  Spider mites.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Characteristics Showy Flowers Bloom Time Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Salmon, Yellow Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Cut Flower Style Cottage Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials