crocosmia x 'lucifer' (monbretia)
$16.95
- robust, bright red flowers on arching stems
- unique buds look like a snake's head as they emerge
- clumping, mid-green, sword-like foliage resembles the traditional gladiola
- bloom time: summer
- zone 5
- height 90-100cm
- spread 50-60cm
- colour red
- grow in average to moist, moderately fertile, well-drained soil
- full sun to partial shade
- divide in early spring, if clump is too thick, to promote better blooming
- in zone 5, it is best to plant no later than early summer, to ensure an established root system going into the winter
- adding a thick layer of mulch may be necessary for winter protection
- may not be reliable in zone 5, so consider digging up the bulbs and storing them in dry, medium cool place over the winter
- spider mites may be troublesome
- full sun, partial sun/shade
- attracts hummingbirds
- (image courtesy of NVK nurseries, NVK holdings inc.)