Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'Emily Mckenzie'
montbretia
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average to fast
- Flowering period: August to October
- Hardiness: frost hardy (may need winter protection)
- Bulb size: 8/10
Wiry, arching stems carry large, pendulous or horizontal, bright orange flowers that have reddish-purple blotches at their base in late summer. Beautiful in bold drifts and excellent cut flowers.
Potted plants can be planted any time of year, avoiding water-saturated and frozen soil. Mix in some well-rotted compost with the excavated soil and firm around the plant and provide a thick layer of mulch (well-rotted compost) as winter protection for the roots. Plant the corms (bulbs) in spring approximately 8-10cm deep and 10-15 cm apart. In autumn, resist removing the faded foliage, and cover the crown of the plant with bracken or bark chips to protect the plant against frost damage. Lift and divide congested colonies in spring, planting the divided sections 8-10cm (3-4in) deep.
- Humans/Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten