KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — When June transitions into July and the coolness of spring is a distant memory, crocosmia enters as a bright spot in the garden. Crocosmia X refers to any hybrid or cross of the seven known species of plants in the genus Crocosmia. In my experience most gardeners simply refer to the plant as crocosmia, however those in the floral industry tend to refer to it as Montbretia.
This name is derived from the French botanist and plant collector Antoine François Ernest Coquebert de Montbret (1781-1801). He apparently hung out with Napoleon in Egypt. If you type his name into a search engine you may want to have a French – English dictionary handy to wade through his life story. The genus and common name crocosmia is derived from two Greek words – krokos (saffron) and osme (smell), pointing out the fact that when dried and rubbed, crocosmia leaves have a fragrance similar to saffron.
When not in bloom crocosmia adds great texture to the garden with its sword-like foliage pointing in every direction. In fact, there are cultivars available that are arguably valued the most for their foliage.
Crocosmia 'Solfaterre' is a plant that has more traditional iris-like foliage that boasts a chocolate copper tone. This paired with the plant's soft yellow-orange flowers makes it a treat for garden designers.
My first experience with crocosmia came with the devilishly named cultivar ‘Lucifer.’ This is without a doubt the most popular cultivar in America.
Lucifer’s deep orange-red flowers born on graceful sprays extend high above the perennial border. Like other cultivars of this plant, the flowers are as equally attractive in bud as they are in their fully open state.
Crocosmia is a cormous perennial native to the grassland in South Africa, so those wishing to be successful with this plant should recognize that "wet feet" are not an option. Well-drained soil is highly preferred.
Additionally, after a few years the plants will become crowded and need to be divided and shared. Overcrowding will lead to lack-luster flowering. For the best blooms, plant crocosmia in full-sun. If you have not yet added this plant to your garden, this month is one of the best to identify the right one for your landscape.
Andrew Pulte is a member of the faculty of the University of Tennessee Plant Sciences Department teaching courses in public horticulture. The University of Tennessee Gardens located in Knoxville and Jackson are part of the UT Institute of Agriculture. Their mission is to foster appreciation, education and stewardship of plants through garden displays, collections, educational programs and research trials. The gardens are open during all seasons and free to the public. For more information, visit http://utgardens.tennessee.edu/ and http://westtennessee.tennessee.edu/ornamentals/

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