If you’re looking for a plant that brings a massive splash of color to your garden or balcony, look no further than the Crocosmia (also known as Montbretia). When these beauties are happy, they’ll reward you with a stunning display of blooms all summer long. Of course, the exact look and vibe of your flowers will depend on which variety you decide to plant.
The Blooms
Crocosmia flowers grow in elegant rows along tall, arching stems. You’ll usually find up to 20 individual blossoms on a single stalk. Depending on the variety you choose, these flower spikes can reach anywhere from 20 inches to nearly 40 inches tall.
If you’re looking for some standout varieties, here are a few of my favorites:
- Rheingold: Features stunning, bright golden-yellow petals.
- George Davidson: Offers beautiful, warm orange blooms.
- Lucifer: A real showstopper with deep, fiery red flowers.
- Emily McKenzie: Gorgeous orange petals accented by a bronze ring in the center.
- Lady Hamilton: Bright yellow flowers with a lovely apricot-colored throat.
Blooming Season
One of the best things about Crocosmia is how long they stick around. They typically start opening up in July and keep going right through the fall. They are the perfect choice for keeping your garden vibrant during the peak of summer and into those early autumn days.
Tips for a Spectacular Show
To get the most out of your plants, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Pick the right spot in your garden.
- Make sure they get plenty of water and the right nutrients.
- Choose a variety that fits your specific garden goals.
Deadheading for More Flowers
During the blooming season, it’s a great idea to regularly “deadhead” or remove old, wilted flowers. You don’t even need garden shears for this—just gently pluck them off with your fingers. This tells the plant to stop putting energy into old blooms and start focusing on new buds, often leading to even more flowers in the same season.
What to Do if They Won’t Bloom
Sometimes, a Crocosmia might refuse to bloom or stop flowering after a few years. Usually, this is the plant’s way of saying it’s unhappy with its care or its location. Try moving it to a different spot or transplanting it if it’s in a pot. Also, double-check that it’s getting enough water and a little boost of fertilizer.
Using Crocosmia as Cut Flowers
Because they look so unique and architectural, Crocosmia make fantastic cut flowers for summer bouquets. Pro tip: Wait to cut the stems until the first few blossoms on the stalk have already opened. This ensures they stay fresh and vibrant in a vase for several days!
