A small genus of 8 species, 7 of which are summer growing with 1 winter growing species. Crocosmia make excellent garden plants, producing mass displays of orange or red flowers in summer. They enjoy well-drained, slightly acid and compost-rich soil, although they even grow well in clay soils. All species enjoy full sun except for C.aurea which prefers shade. Summer species need regular drenching during the growing season, and although some can tolerate moisture in winter they are best kept dry. Sunbirds and butterflies find the flowers irresistible and the sight of a mass display in the garden is strikingly beautiful.
Name |
Crocosmia aurea |
|
Common name |
Falling stars |
African name |
udwendweni (z) |
D/E |
deciduous |
Rainfall |
summer |
Height |
1m |
Light requirements |
s |
Flowers |
March |
Medicinal uses |
Used in traditional medicine to treat dysentery.
|
Name |
Crocosmia paniculata |
|
Common name |
Zigzag crocosmia |
African name |
udwendweni (z) |
D/E |
deciduoud |
Rainfall |
summer |
Height |
1.3m |
Light requirements |
fs |
Flowers |
February |
Medicinal uses |
Used in traditional medicine to treat dysentery and infertility.
|
Name |
Crocosmia potsii |
|
Common name |
Slender crocosmia |
African name |
udwendweni (z) |
D/E |
deciduous |
Rainfall |
summer |
Height |
60cm |
Light requirements |
ss |
Flowers |
January |
Medicinal uses |
Used in traditional medicine to treat dysentery and infertility.
|