SafePlants

Crocosmia (Montbretia)

Crocosmia, commonly known as Montbretia, is a genus of deciduous cormous perennials celebrated for its vibrant flowers and sword-shaped leaves. These plants add a splash of color to gardens, particularly in late summer.

Considerations for Pets

• Crocosmia grows from corms, forming dense clumps of upright, sword-shaped foliage. These structures may be attractive to diggers.
• The plant's leaves are narrow and erect, and may present a risk to pets if ingested in large amounts.

Considerations for Children

• Crocosmia leaves were historically used as whistles, with different tones produced depending on the breadth of the leaf. Adults should supervise children engaging in this activity to prevent injury.

Scientific Classification

• Genus: Crocosmia
• Family: Iridaceae (iris family)

The name "Montbretia" was once commonly used for plants now classified within the Crocosmia genus.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the grasslands of southern and eastern Africa.
• Widely naturalized in damp places and on dry banks, often near roads or habitation. Observed alongside country lanes and loch areas.
• All species are non-native in the UK.

Ecological Role

• Some varieties, like the hybrid montbretia (Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora), are considered invasive and non-native in certain regions. They can spread aggressively, forming dense clumps.

Morphological Characteristics

• Deciduous cormous perennials.
• Erect, sword-shaped leaves.
• Branched spikes of showy, funnel-shaped flowers.
• Flowers often display a herringbone arrangement, with six orange-red petals fanning out.

Cultivation

• Prefers full sun or partial shade.
• Thrives in moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil.
• Blooms in late summer (e.g., August and September).
• 'Lucifer' is a popular variety known for its vivid red flowers.

Quirky Facts

• Historically, Crocosmia leaves have been used to make whistles, with different tones produced by varying the leaf's breadth.