Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 3.0 - 00000469
11/12/99
Crocosmia spp.--Crocosmia
Height: 36 in Spacing: 6 in
Type: tender bulb
Flowers: Orange, red, yellow
Comments: The flowers of this tender bulb are borne in
horizontal spikes rather than upright spikes as with
gladiolus. Crocosmia can tolerate some drought but grows
best when provided with a sunny location and a rich,
well-drained soil. The corms may survive the winter in Zone
5 if provided with a winter mulch. In warm climates, the
plant quickly forms large colonies by self-seeding and
multiplication of the corms. This is an indication of its
tolerance for heat and humidity. After the foliage
matures the corms can be dug and stored through the
winter.
Propagation: Separate the corms at planting time or by
seeds.
Cultivars:
'Emily McKenzie' - Orange flowers with a red throat.
'Jenny Bloom' - Dark yellow flowers.
'Lucifer' - Bright red flowers are produced on plants 4
feet tall (Vis. 1).
'Norwich Canary' - Canary yellow flowers.
References for Cultivars: White Flower Farm 1999, Walters
Gardens 1999, Wayside Gardens 1999, Berryhill Nurseries
1999, Willoway Nurseries 1999.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
This file was generated from data base ZZ on 01/19/00.
Data base ZZ was last revised on 11/12/99.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
heatley@msue.msu.edu . Please read our
disclaimer for important
information about using our site.