Montbretia Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'Emily McKenzie'

Names

• Family

  Iridaceae.

• Synonyms

  Montbretia, Coppertips, Falling Stars.

• Common names

  Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'Emily McKenzie'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant commonly known as Montbretia 'Emily McKenzie' is not generally considered toxic to humans. There is limited information regarding its toxicity, and it is not known to contain any significant toxins that would cause harm if ingested. Therefore, no typical symptoms of poisoning are documented for humans from eating parts of Montbretia. Although the plant is not considered poisonous, ingesting any non-food plant can potentially cause gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions in some individuals.

• To pets

  Montbretia 'Emily McKenzie' is also not known to be toxic to pets. It does not appear on lists of plants that are poisonous to domestic animals, such as dogs and cats. While it’s not considered poisonous, it is still advisable to prevent pets from ingesting this or any other ornamental plants, as they could potentially cause gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction due to the fibrous plant material or natural plant compounds not typically found in an animal's diet.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Orange

• Height

  2-3 feet (60-90 cm)

• Spread

  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)

• Plant type

  Bulb

• Hardiness zones

  5-9

• Native area

  South Africa

General Benefits

• Attracts Pollinators: This Crocosmia variety is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which are crucial for pollination in the garden.
• Landscape Coloring: 'Emily McKenzie' offers vibrant orange flowers with red to maroon spots, adding a splash of color to any garden or landscape.
• Easy to Grow: This plant is relatively low maintenance and easy to cultivate, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is quite drought-tolerant, which means it does not require frequent watering, saving time and resources.
• Long Blooming: The plant has a long flowering period, from mid-summer to early fall, ensuring a prolonged display of color.
• Structural Interest: 'Emily McKenzie' has an upright, architectural form which can add height and structure to garden beds and borders.
• Cut Flowers: The blooms make excellent cut flowers, lasting well in vases and adding to the aesthetic of interior spaces.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Crocosmia 'Emily McKenzie' corms can be used as a food source for squirrels and other wildlife, as they will often dig up and eat the corms.
• The plant's dried seed heads can be used in floral arrangements to add a unique, architectural element to bouquets and wreaths.
• The bright flowers can be used as a natural dye, imparting shades of yellow or orange to fabrics or paper.
• Crocosmia's dense foliage can provide a habitat and hiding spots for small garden beneficial insects and spiders.
• The plant can be grown in pots and moved to create temporary privacy screens on patios or balconies during the summer months.
• The strong, upright stems of crocosmia can be used as natural stakes or supports for other, more delicate plants in the garden.
• This plant can create a visual barrier when planted in a row, defining the edges of garden paths or property lines.
• Crocosmia can be used in xeriscaping, a landscaping method that reduces or eliminates the need for supplemental water from irrigation.
• Planting Crocosmia in areas prone to soil erosion can help hold the soil in place with their root systems.
• When grown near vegetable gardens, Crocosmia can help attract pollinators, benefiting the pollination of crops and potentially increasing yields.

Feng Shui

The plant Montbretia is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The plant Montbretia is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Passion and Love: The vibrant orange and red hues of the Crocosmia often symbolize strong emotions such as passion, love, and affection, making it a favorite bloom in romantic bouquets and arrangements.
• Endurance and Strength: Because Crocosmia is hardy and can withstand various climates, it is seen as a symbol of endurance and the ability to overcome challenges.
• Zeal and Enthusiasm: The fiery colors and assertive posture of Crocosmia blooms are also representative of enthusiasm, zeal, and an energetic spirit in life.