Hesperantha coccinea
crimson flag
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained
- Rate of growth: fast
- Flowering period: August to September
- Hardiness: frost hardy (may need protection in winter)
A showy addition to the late summer and autumn border, this crimson flag (also known as Schizostylis) produces upright flowerspikes that are studded with warm red blooms. Sun-loving and long-flowering, it will flourish in a warm, sheltered spot. - Garden care: Prepare the soil well by digging in lots of well-rotted garden compost or manure and plant the corms 5cm deep and 5cm apart. Water during dry spells and when flowering, 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.