Crocosmia 'Lucifer' (Lucifer Crocosmia) — Clump-forming perennial

Overview

Crocosmia 'Lucifer' is a clump-forming perennial perennial in the genus Crocosmia, part of the Iridaceae family, with sword-shaped leaves foliage. Crocosmia 'Lucifer' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and neutral and slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, cut flowers, cottage gardens and containers. It is native to South Africa.

About

A vigorous, clump-forming perennial with arching, sword-shaped leaves and bright scarlet-red tubular flowers arranged on tall, slender stems in summer.

About the genus

Crocosmia, also known as montbretia, is a small genus of flowering plants in the iris family, Iridaceae. It is native to the grasslands of southern and eastern Africa, ranging from South Africa to Sudan. One species is endemic to Madagascar.

Wikipedia contributors, "Crocosmia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Crocosmia

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Crocosmia

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained, fertile
Soil pH: neutral, slightly acidic
Soil moisture: moist, well-drained
Aspect: south-facing
Exposure: sheltered to exposed
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Crocosmia 'Lucifer' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Habit: Clump-forming perennial
Foliage: Sword-shaped leaves
Suggested uses: borders, cut flowers, cottage gardens, containers
Native to: South Africa

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Crocosmia 'Lucifer'

Cultivation: Plant corms in spring or autumn, 5-8 cm deep, spaced 15 cm apart. Prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Mulch in winter in colder areas.
Pruning: Cut back foliage after flowering and when it dies down in autumn.
Propagation: Division of corms in spring or autumn.
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Crocosmia 'Lucifer'?

Plant corms in spring or autumn, 5-8 cm deep, spaced 15 cm apart. Prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Mulch in winter in colder areas.

Where is the best place to plant Crocosmia 'Lucifer'?

Crocosmia 'Lucifer' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered to exposed positions.

What soil does Crocosmia 'Lucifer' need?

Crocosmia 'Lucifer' grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It prefers neutral and slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist to well-drained.

How do I prune Crocosmia 'Lucifer'?

Cut back foliage after flowering and when it dies down in autumn.

Is Crocosmia 'Lucifer' hardy in the UK?

Crocosmia 'Lucifer' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Crocosmia 'Lucifer'?

Division of corms in spring or autumn.

More in the Crocosmia genus

Browse all Crocosmia →