Discover the Stunning World of Crocosmia: 15 Captivating Varieties to Grow in Your Garden

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Are you ready to bring a burst of warmth and fiery color to your garden? Look no further than crocosmias! These stunning flowering perennials come in a variety of sizes and shades, adding a touch of vibrancy to any landscape. Whether you prefer shorter, more compact varieties or taller showstoppers, there’s a crocosmia for every garden. But choosing the right one can be a challenge. In this article, we’ll explore 15 captivating crocosmia varieties, each with its own unique characteristics that are sure to captivate both you and your garden visitors.

Unveiling the Marvels of Crocosmia

Crocosmias, also known as montbretias, are a sight to behold. Their warm, fiery hues and elegant petals make them a standout in any garden. But it’s important to choose the right variety that suits your needs and prevents the spread of invasive types into the surrounding environment. With that in mind, let’s dive into the world of crocosmias and discover some truly mesmerizing options.

Orange flowering crocosmia plant growing outside amongst tall grass

1) C. × crocosmiiflora ‘Babylon’

One of the first varieties on our list is the enchanting ‘Babylon.’ With large, orangey-red flowers adorned with a golden yellow center, this crocosmia is a true showstopper. It reaches a height of around 1m with a spread of 0.1-0.5m. ‘Babylon’ is H4 hardy and even earned the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit.

2) C. × crocosmiiflora ‘Citronella’

For a fresh and zesty addition to your garden, look no further than ‘Citronella.’ With its upright light green leaves and small, soft yellow flowers, this variety brings a touch of sunshine to any space. It grows to a maximum height and spread of around 60cm, making it a versatile choice for borders or containers.

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Yellowy-orange flowering crocosmia plant growing outdoors with grass in the background

3) C. × crocosmiiflora ‘Coleton Fishacre’

If you’re longing for a richer, more golden yellow hue, ‘Coleton Fishacre’ is the perfect choice. This yellow flowering crocosmia reaches around 60cm in height with a spread of 0.1-0.5m. It thrives in partially shaded spots and adds a touch of elegance to any garden setting.

4) C. × crocosmiiflora ‘Emily McKenzie’

For container gardening or smaller spaces, ‘Emily McKenzie’ is a compact crocosmia that doesn’t compromise on beauty. With its bright orange blooms and mahogany-colored throats, this variety forms small, dense clumps and reaches a height of around 60cm. Pair it with Achillea ‘Terracotta’ or Echinacea ‘Irresistible’ for a stunning late summer display.

5) C. × crocosmiiflora ‘George Davidson’

Another yellow crocosmia variety that deserves attention is ‘George Davidson.’ With its golden yellow flowers reminiscent of freesias, this beauty blooms well into autumn. Growing to around 60cm in height and spread, ‘George Davidson’ thrives alongside dramatic flowering plants like kniphofia (Red Hot Pokers) or ornamental grasses.

6) C. × crocosmiiflora ‘Harvest Sun’

Looking to add a tropical touch to your garden? ‘Harvest Sun’ is the crocosmia for you. This fairly new hybrid boasts large red-orange flowers and fresh green foliage. It grows to approximately 90cm tall with a spread of around 45cm, making it a striking addition to any tropical planting scheme.

Close-up of crocosmia flower heads with orange-red petals and yellow stamen growing from tall green stems

7) C. ‘Hellfire’

For a touch of fiery drama, ‘Hellfire’ is a standout choice. With bright red flowers on arching stems that can reach a height of around 1m, this crocosmia demands attention. Its large, open petals create a striking visual, and it’s no wonder that ‘Hellfire’ is a recipient of the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

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8) C. × crocosmiiflora ‘Honey Angels’

If you’re looking for a charming and delicate crocosmia, ‘Honey Angels’ is sure to capture your heart. With its creamy yellow flowers, this RHS recipient adds a touch of elegance to any garden. Reaching a height of around 75cm and with a spread of 0.1-0.5m, ‘Honey Angels’ pairs beautifully with grasses and late-flowering perennials.

9) C. ‘Lucifer’: The Iconic Crocosmia

No crocosmia list would be complete without mentioning the iconic ‘Lucifer.’ Known for its vibrant red flowers, this UK garden favorite is a true gem. Reaching a height of up to 1.2m with a spread of less than 0.5m, ‘Lucifer’ is a reliable early bloomer, making it perfect for the back of a border. Its long, arching flowering stems are a real eye-catcher, earning it a well-deserved reputation as an all-time favorite.

10) C. masoniorum: The Giant Montbretia

For those seeking a taller option, the majestic C. masoniorum, also known as giant crocosmia, is an excellent choice. With its bright orange-red, upward-facing flowers on stems that can reach around 1.2m in height, this crocosmia demands attention. Its spread of 0.1-0.5m and H4 hardiness make it a striking addition to any garden, though it may require occasional dividing to keep it in check.

11) C. ‘Paul’s Best Yellow’

If you’re seeking a touch of golden splendor, look no further than ‘Paul’s Best Yellow.’ Towering up to 1.5m, this variety boasts bright golden yellow flowers that are perfect for cutting and creating stunning floral displays. Its tall flowering stems make it an ideal choice for larger gardens, adding a touch of elegance to every arrangement.

12) C. × crocosmiiflora ‘Saracen’

With its mid-green strap leaves flushed with a bronze hue, ‘Saracen’ is a crocosmia that delights the eye. Its bright reddish-orange flowers with yellowish throats bloom in mid to late summer, standing tall at around 75cm. This H4 hardy variety adds a captivating touch to any garden and deserves its place among the most celebrated crocosmias.

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13) C. ‘Severn Sunrise’

For a sunrise-inspired display, ‘Severn Sunrise’ is a top choice. Its beautiful flowers start as vibrant orange and fade to a pinker hue, creating a tropical and exotic flair in your garden. Pair it with daylilies, dahlias, and gazanias for a burst of color. With a height of 0.5-1m and a spread of 0.1-0.5m, ‘Severn Sunrise’ is a perfect addition to any partial shade area.

14) C. ‘Spitfire’

A compact crocosmia that refuses to be overlooked, ‘Spitfire’ boasts vibrant reddish-orange flowers that bloom in the latter half of summer. Reaching a height of 0.6-1m, this well-behaved variety is easy to maintain. Alongside its companion ‘Lucifer,’ ‘Spitfire’ has been gracing UK gardens for decades.

15) C. × crocosmiiflora ‘Star of the East’

Last but not least, ‘Star of the East’ enchants with its light orange flowers and paler yellow centers. With blooms that can grow up to 10cm across, this crocosmia adds a touch of elegance to any garden. Reaching a height of 0.5-1m and requiring full sun or partial shade, ‘Star of the East’ is H4 hardy and offers a delightful display throughout summer and autumn.

While the options presented here are among the most highly regarded crocosmia varieties in the UK, there are countless other choices to explore. By considering size, growth habit, and color, you’ll find the perfect crocosmia to complement your unique garden.

So, why wait? Embrace the beauty of crocosmias and experience the warmth and vibrancy they bring to your garden. Discover your favorite varieties, create stunning color combinations, and watch as your landscape comes alive with the allure of these captivating flowers.

To explore even more gardening wonders, visit Ames Farm Center, where you’ll find a treasure trove of inspiration and expert advice.

References:

  1. CABI Compendium. (2022, January 7). Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora (montbretia). https://doi.org/10.1079/cabicompendium.55282
  2. Essex Gardens Trust. (2020, August 15). Plant Stories. https://www.essexgardenstrust.org.uk/plant-stories