Is Crocosmia Lucifer invasive?
Crocosmia ‘lucifer’ is classified as invasive due to its rapid spread through corms and seeds. This plant can quickly establish itself in new areas, often leading to dense populations that overshadow native species. Its competitive nature enables it to outcompete local flora for resources like sunlight and nutrients. Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ (Montbretia) Probably the most widely grown cultivar of Crocosmia, award-winning Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ produces decorative clumps of erect pleated leaves and brilliant wands of fiery scarlet red tubular flowers which bloom for 5-8 weeks from mid to late summer.Crocosmia is part of the iridaceae family, meaning it’s like a first cousin of Gladiola and Iris (about which you can learn more here). The variety we grow at Sun Valley is nicknamed Lucifer for its brilliant red color. Think little horns, cloven hooves, pitchfork. Yep, that Lucifer.It flowers from early to late summer in strong shades of red, orange and yellow. It is a reliable border plant returning each year with lovely bold flowers in strong colours. Crocosmia is herbaceous, which means it dies back over the winter to bare earth, regrowing each spring.Deadhead crocosmias regularly to encourage new blooms. Cut the stem back where they meet the leaves. Be sure to keep the leaves of a crocosmia after the flower has finished blooming, as they can be reused to provide an energy charge to the bulb through photosynthesis.Crocosmia. Cut back flowering stems to near ground level in November, but leave evergreen foliage to provide winter protection – removing it in early March. In cold gardens, lift corms in October.
What are good companion plants for Crocosmia?
What flowers are good companions for crocosmia? Crocosmia are very versatile and really shine when planted next to other sun-loving, tender bulbs, like dahlias, cannas and anemones For a carefree look and low maintenance garden, try planting them with ornamental grasses or geraniums. In early spring, plant crocosmia corms about 10-15cm (4-6in) apart and 10cm (4in) deep. They are best planted in light, well-drained soil.Extremely showy and exotic-looking, Crocosmia produce decorative clumps of erect sword-shaped leaves and brilliant wands of fiery scarlet, red, orange, and yellow tubular flowers which bloom for 5-8 weeks from mid-summer through mid-fall.For the best results, plant them in spring, usually from April to June. Crocosmia corms can be grown directly outdoors into borders and containers, ensuring the soil is well-drained and moist, enriched with garden compost or well-rotted manure.In garden beds, plant crocosmia corms 2 to 3 inches deep and 8 to 10 inches apart, with the pointed end facing up. Mass the corms together in groups of 10 or more for the best effect.Crocosmia. Cut back flowering stems to near ground level in November, but leave evergreen foliage to provide winter protection – removing it in early March. In cold gardens, lift corms in October.
Where is the best place to plant Crocosmia?
Crocosmia prefer full sun but will tolerate partial sunshine. A more shaded spot will mean less prolific flowers. Aim for a place in the garden which is moist but well-drained. Crocosmia are native to the warmer regions of South and Eastern Africa, but are tolerant of cold UK winters. Autumn Pruning: Once the blooming period ends, cut back Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ to ground level in autumn. This helps prepare the plant for winter and ensures fresh growth in the coming season.Plant Crocosmia in full sun and well-drained soil that does not become waterlogged. Its fleshy roots (corms) should be planted 2-4 deep and 6-8 apart. Crocosmia will quickly grow and overcrowd itself, and therefore should be divided every 2-3 years.