Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’
IRIDACEAE, The Iris family
Crocosmia is also known as Montbretia. It grows from a corm, like a gladiolus or crocus. The botanical name comes from the fact that the dried flowers smell like saffron. Crocosmia was growing vigorously in Kim’s old garden, though at this time of year it is ragged and nearly dormant. It makes a great cut flower, having strong stems and lasting for a week or so in a vase. In the garden it is a surefire hummingbird attractant. ‘Lucifer’ is the most common variety. It grows 4 feet tall and has bright red flowers.
These cultivars all grow to 2 feet tall:
‘Emily McKenzie’ - orange blossoms with red spot in the center
‘Seven Seas’ - red with orange spot
‘Citronella’- yellow with an orange spot
‘Solfatare’ - light orange blooms, bronzy purple leafs
