giant montbretia
Crocosmia masoniorum
A.M.-B.C. 1955, F.C.C.-B.C. 1957, A.M.-R.H.S. 1957, F.C.C.-R.H.S. 1963
USDA zones6 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size1.5 to 4 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Bloom season
- Summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Orange-red
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Giant montbretia (Crocosmia masoniorum) is a bulb for borders, containers, and low maintenance gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 6, or down to -10°F (-23°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to moist soil of most types. Arching stems carry orange-red flowers from midsummer to fall, and hummingbirds and butterflies visit the blooms. Deer and rabbits tend to browse other plants first. Sword-shaped leaves add a tall vertical accent.
Pairs well with Fountain grass, Balloon flower, and Tiger lily.
Native range
S Africa (Transkei).