About

Crocosmia 'Hellfire' is a perennial plant that forms clumps and develops from corms. This hardy species reaches a height of around 1.2 meters when in bloom and exhibits an upright growth pattern without spreading. It features narrow, blade-like foliage in a medium green hue, accompanied by arching flower stalks. From mid to late summer, these stems showcase numerous tubular flowers in a vibrant vermillion-red, each adorned with a darker red throat.

About the genus

Crocosmia are perennial plants that die back in winter, characterized by their upright, sword-like foliage and branched flower spikes that produce vibrant, funnel-shaped blooms during the summer months.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Plant type
Bulbs, Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1-1.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Cultivation
Corms should be planted in moderately fertile, humus rich soil approximately 10cm deep and 7.5–10cm apart in groups to form clumps. Water if it is a dry season as a lack of water reduces flowering. Has the potential to become a nuisance in some gardens if not managed well
Pruning
No pruning required, except the removal of dead leaves and flower stems before new growth starts in spring
Propagation
Propagate by division in early spring when clumps become congested or Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free