Montbretia Crocosmia 'Sulphurea'
ABOUT
Crocosmia 'Sulphurea' is a striking perennial known for its vibrant display of flowers. It features lance-shaped, bright green leaves that arch gracefully and are reminiscent of the iris or the gladiolus in their growth form. The foliage creates a lush backdrop for the impressive flower spikes that shoot up above the leaves. The blooms are what truly set this plant apart with their funnel-shaped structure and a vivid yellow to soft buttery yellow coloration that resemble flames flickering in the garden. The flowers are arranged in a branched, zigzag pattern along the flowering stems, adding intriguing geometric visual interest. The blossoms are known to attract hummingbirds and beneficial pollinators, making this plant a lively addition to any garden. This variety of Crocosmia exudes a sultry, summery atmosphere through its warm-toned blooms that stand out amidst the greenery.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Montbretia, Falling Stars
Common names
Crocosmia 'Sulphurea'.
ToxicityTo humans
Crocosmia 'Sulphurea', commonly known as Montbretia, is not typically considered toxic to humans. However, it is important to note that individual reactions can vary, and some people may experience mild discomfort if they ingest parts of the plant or if they have sensitive skin that comes into contact with it. Symptoms of irritation might include gastrointestinal upset such as nausea or diarrhea, or dermatitis if there is a skin reaction. Nevertheless, severe toxicity is uncommon, and adverse outcomes from ingesting or handling Montbretia are rare.
To pets
Montbretia is not generally regarded as a toxic plant to pets either. While it is always prudent for pets to avoid ingesting plants not intended for consumption, Montbretia does not pose a high risk of toxicity. If a pet ingests part of this plant, they might experience mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. However, severe poisoning or dangerous physical reactions are not commonly associated with pets ingesting Montbretia. It is always advisable to monitor pets and prevent them from eating ornamental plants, as individual sensitivities can vary, and ingestion can still lead to distress or complications.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Hummingbirds: Crocosmia 'Sulphurea' is known for its ability to attract hummingbirds, which can add vibrant wildlife to the garden.
- Adds Color: This cultivar produces bright yellow-orange flowers that add a splash of color to summertime gardens.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, Crocosmia 'Sulphurea' is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates.
- Easy to Grow: It is considered low-maintenance and is fairly easy to grow, which is ideal for beginner gardeners.
- Cutting Garden Plant: The blooms make excellent cut flowers for arrangements, lasting well in vases.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, Crocosmia 'Sulphurea' will return each year, offering a long-term presence in the garden.
- Vertical Interest: With its tall, arching stems, this plant adds vertical interest to garden beds and borders.
- Companion Planting: It pairs well with other plants in mixed borders, helping to create visually appealing garden designs.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crocosmia can be used as a natural dye, with the flowers providing a range of yellow to orange hues that can color fabrics and yarns.
- The dried seed pods of Crocosmia are used in floral arrangements, adding an exotic and structural element to bouquets and wreaths.
- The flowers can be used for cake decoration, offering a vibrant, edible garnish to desserts and pastries.
- You can press Crocosmia flowers to create botanical artwork, using them in framed flower arrangements or as a part of paper crafts.
- As a photography subject, artists and photographers may use Crocosmia for its striking color and shape to create vibrant images.
- The plant can aid in erosion control, with its dense root system helping to stabilize soil on slopes and banks.
- Crocosmia can be used as an indicator plant for gardeners, as its need for well-drained soil helps monitor water drainage in garden beds.
- In eco-printing, the leaves and flowers can be used to transfer natural shapes and colors onto fabrics or paper.
- The plant's arching stems and bright flowers can serve as inspiration for designers and artists in creating jewelry or textile patterns.
- As a natural pest deterrent, Crocosmia may help to keep certain pests away when planted among vegetable crops.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Montbretia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Montbretia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Passion and Love: Crocosmia, commonly known as Montbretia, often symbolizes strong feelings such as passion and love, likely due to its vibrant and fiery flowers.
- Independence and Freedom: The Montbretia's free growth habit and ability to spread in the garden can also symbolize independence and a sense of freedom.
- Remembrance: In some cultures, Montbretia is used to remember loved ones who have passed, possibly because of its striking presence and lasting beauty.
- Warmth and Sunshine: The bright yellow and orange hues of Crocosmia 'Sulphurea' suggest warmth and sunshine, making it a symbol of joy and vibrancy.
WaterCrocosmia, also known as montbretia, prefers consistent moisture especially during the growing season, but does not do well in soggy soil. Water the plant deeply once a week providing about one inch of water which corresponds approximately to 0.6 gallons per square yard of soil. In hotter, drier periods, watering frequency may increase to twice per week. Reduce watering in the fall as the plant goes dormant, and during winter, water sparingly, only to prevent the soil from completely drying out. For potted montbretias, water once the top inch of soil feels dry.
LightMontbretia thrives in full sun to partial shade, with a preference for a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in extremely hot climates, light afternoon shade can help protect the plant from excessive heat. Montbretia will bloom more prolifically with adequate sunlight, so choose a location that provides bright, unfiltered light for the majority of the day.
TemperatureMontbretia grows best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. The plant can tolerate minimum temperatures down to around 20°F but should be protected from hard frosts. Ideal growing conditions for montbretia include warm days and cooler nights within this temperature range, as excessive heat can stress the plant.
PruningPrune montbretia to remove spent flower stalks and to tidy the plant after flowering, which often encourages a second bloom. In late fall or early winter, cut back the foliage to ground level after it has died back naturally. Pruning is typically done once a year, timed with the plant's natural growing cycle for the best health and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMontbretia prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. An ideal soil mix would be loamy soil amended with compost or well-rotted manure to provide richness and further improve drainage. Incorporating some sand or perlite can also enhance drainage, which is crucial to prevent bulb rot.
RepottingMontbretia generally does not need to be repotted frequently as it is usually grown from corms that are planted directly in the ground. However, if grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years or when the corms become crowded, ideally in spring before new growth starts.
Humidity & MistingMontbretia tolerates a range of humidity levels but does not require high humidity. Average room humidity is generally sufficient for indoor growth, and outdoors, it adapts to the local ambient humidity without needing special adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light, well-draining soil, and water moderately.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, and ensure adequate space.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleCrocosmia 'Sulphurea', commonly known as Montbretia, begins its life cycle as a corm, which is a bulb-like storage organ. In spring, new shoots emerge from the corm, developing into long, sword-shaped leaves and eventually giving rise to arching stems bearing sprays of funnel-shaped, yellow to orange flowers during the summer months. After the flowering period, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed by wind or wildlife, though reproduction primarily occurs vegetatively through the corms. As the colder months approach, the foliage dies back, and the corms enter a dormant phase during winter, conserving energy for the next growing season. In appropriate climates or with proper mulching to protect against frost, the corm will survive through the winter and regenerate in the following spring, continuing the cycle. With time, the corms can multiply, forming clumps that can be divided and replanted to propagate new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Late summer to fall
Crocosmia 'Lucifer', commonly referred to simply as Crocosmia, is typically propagated through division. The best time to propagate the plant is in the spring, once any threat of frost has passed and the soil is workable. The process involves digging up the corms, which are the bulb-like storage organs of the plant, and gently separating them by hand. Each division should have at least one growth point or shoot. These individual corms can then be replanted immediately at a depth of roughly 3 to 5 inches (7.6 to 12.7 centimeters) in well-draining soil, ensuring they are spaced approximately 6 to 8 inches (15.2 to 20.3 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth. The divisions should be watered in well after planting to help establish them.
