dramatic architectural plant reaches
its true potential only in cool-summer
climates. Plants will sometimes need
staking even under ideal growing
conditions. Division is possible in
early spring, but isn’t necessary.
related plantS Crambe maritima,
sea kale (zones 4–9), is a compressed
rendition of colewort that tops out at
2–3 ft. It’s grown primarily for its
jagged, glaucous blue foliage, but its
short sprays of bright white flowers
are a nice bonus. Deadleaf plants as
needed and cut down in late fall. This
species is native to European coasts
and tolerates drought, salt spray, and
alkaline soils.Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’
‘Lucifer’ crocosmia
iridaceae
Red funnel-shaped flowers; swordlike
foliage
2–4 ft. high; 1–2 ft. wide
Full sun
Blooms July–August
Zones 5–9
pruning Deadleafing may be
necessary in July or August in certain
years due to spider mite damage. This
may mean removing the dead leaves
and leaving only the flowering stalk
while still in bloom. The plant is
self-cleaning and flowers simply drop
off. I find the horizontal shape of the
old bloom cluster and seed capsules to
be attractive when first developing, so
I leave these to extend interest. Then
they often need to be cut down, along
with any deteriorating foliage, by late
summer.
other maintenance Hose off
spider mites when they are first visible.
Divide plants every 2–3 years in the
autumn to keep vigorous, or separate
offsets from the mother plant in the
spring as growth starts. Crocosmia
prefers moist, well-draining, rich
organic soil. It can be short-lived in
zone 5; planting in a protected spot
and mulching can improve overwin-
tering success.
related plantS Other cultivarsmay be had in a range of hot colors.
‘Emberglow’ is a fiery red-orange,
while ‘Emily McKenzie’ is bright
orange with a maroon ring surround-
ing a golden throat. ‘Emily McKenzie’
is a bit less hardy—to zone 6. ‘George
Davison’ is a warm, clear yellow.Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’