For the love of Crocosmias…

Crocosmia

These beautiful plants originate in South Africa where they grow in a range of habitats from open grasslands in quite high elevations to woodland and even along the banks of streams.

Generally crocosmias like a sunny area but cope well with part of the day in shade too. A few varieties like a bit more shade than that.

They tolerate windy conditions, dry conditions (if planted deeply) and are not eaten by deer.

They come in a range of heights and flower shape and go well with grasses, Heleniums, Agapanthus and many other perennials.

Planting

Crocosmias like access to moisture in order to flower well but they don’t like to sit in water during the wetter months, so if you think the area you have chosen gets very soggy then before planting dig a 30cm deep hole and add a few handfuls of grit at the bottom then backfill with some good organic soil placing the corms at least 7cms down. But if the area gets very dry plant the corms deeper, about 10–15cms deep.

Crocosmias bought in pots can be planted directly in the ground too, try to ascertain where the corms are in the pot and follow the guide above. Finally, a mulch of bark or other organic matter over the planting hole will help to retain moisture in the hot summer weather.

You can take a look at the wonderful Crocosmias we have on offer this year in our shop! :)