Crocosmia Lucifer (Montbretia)

Probably the most widely grown cultivar of Crocosmia, award-winning 'Lucifer' produces decorative clumps of erect pleated leaves and brilliant wands of fiery scarlet red tubular flowers which bloom for 5-8 weeks from mid to late summer. Extremely showy, this South African native is a magnet for hummingbirds and butterflies. Its vibrant blossoms give way to seedpods that persist into fall and attract hungry birds.

• Won the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
• Great perennial for the late season garden as it provides weeks of vibrant colors when many other perennials are starting to fade.
• Resembling the foliage of sword-lilies, Crocosmia's narrow, bladed leaves also provide interesting vertical accents in the borders.
• Grows up to 2-4 ft. tall (60-120 cm) with a spread of 1-2 ft. (30-60 cm) and begins to produce its lovely blossoms in the summer.
• Excellent border plant providing color and contrast to the perennial border. It looks spectacular in front of green conifers, among dark leaved dahlias and cannas or next to blue-flowering plants such as Agapanthus (Lily of the Nile), Aconitum (Monkshood) or Echinops (Globe Thistle). Should be planted in clumps of 12 or more.
• May be grown in containers – make sure you select a large pot with drainage holes.
• Makes wonderful cut flowers and will last up to 2 weeks in a vase.
• Easily grown in moderately fertile, humus-rich soil that is moist but well-drained. Thrives in full sun or partial shade where it will multiply rapidly and readily.
• Tolerant of summer heat and humidity, it is also drought tolerant (once established), salt tolerant, deer and rabbit resistant.