Stiff, upright stems of large, deep red, gladiolus-like flowers in August and September above narrow, mid-green leaves. These eye-catching crimson flag lilies (or Schizostylis)  provide vertical interest and a late splash of colour when many summer flowers are coming to a close. Perfect for a sheltered sunny, moist but well-drained border, they make excellent cut flowers.
                                    
                                        How to care for Hesperantha coccinea Major:
                                          Apply lots of well-rotted garden compost or manure when planting. Water during dry spells and deadhead regularly. After flowering remove the faded flowerspikes and protect the crown of the plant with a deep, dry winter mulch. Lift and divide congested plants every two or three years in spring.
                                     
                                        
                                        
                                            Flowering period:
                                            
                                                
                                                    - Jan
 - Feb
 - Mar
 - Apr
 - May
 - Jun
 - Jul
 - Aug
 - Sep
 - Oct
 - Nov
 - Dec
 
                                                
                                             
                                         
                                        
                                        
                                            Eventual height:
                                            0.6m
                                            Eventual spread:
                                            0.3m
                                         
                                        
                                        
                                            Rate of growth:
                                            Fast-growing
                                         
                                        
                                            Soil:
                                            Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
                                         
                                        
                                            Hardiness:
                                            Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
                                         
                                    
                                        
                                            - 
                                                
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.