Despite its tropical origin, this Crocosmia (Montbretia) is hardy down to zone 5 and can stay in the ground year-round in all but the harshest climates, reliably blooming season after season. See 6 varieties, including Crocosmia Lucifer and Emily McKenzie. Crocosmia – How to Grow and Care for Montbretia - Garden Design Once known as montbretia, there were only a few breeds and they struggled to stand out from the crowd.

Understanding the Context

Now, these vibrant border perennials have gained significant interest in color, size and planting options. Crocosmia varieties: 16 gorgeous types of montbretia to try | Homes and ... Flower colors range from fiery red and orange to golden yellow, earning it the common names “montbretia” and “fire lily”. These flowers make excellent cut flowers, lasting up to 2 weeks in a vase.

Key Insights

Crocosmia (/ krəˈkɒzmiə, kroʊ -/ [2][3]), also known as montbretia[4] (/ mɒnˈbriːʃə / [5]), is a small genus of flowering plants in the iris family, Iridaceae. It is native to the grasslands of southern and eastern Africa, ranging from South Africa to Sudan. One species is endemic to Madagascar. [1] Native to South Africa, montbretia displays beautiful colored bunches that tend to grow thicker and thicker as seasons repeat. Leaves are a beautiful luscious green while its flowers grant us with warm, shimmering colors ranging from yellow to red and orange.

Final Thoughts

Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ is a perennial plant with brilliant red, tubular flowers and sword-shaped leaves. It belongs to the genus Crocosmia, which comprises about eleven species native to South Africa, parts of central and east Africa, Sudan, and Madagascar.