Crocosmia X crocosmiiflora
Montebretia
Description
Montebretia is a bulb, closely resembling gladiolus. Vertical, strap like leaves grow to 3' tall. Brilliant red, coral/apricot, red, red-orange, or bright yellow flowers sit on top of arching stalks during the summer. Plants may wither in winter but come back in spring. It requires sun to part shade. Once this plant is established, it requires little or no summer watering. This plant performs well in containers as it is considered invasive in some areas.
Plant Type
Bulb
Height Range
3-6'
Flower Color
Orange, Red, Yellow
Flower Season
Summer
Leaf Color
Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Loam
Soil Condition
Rich, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
Invasive
Design Styles
English Cottage, Woodland
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers
Seasonal Interest
Summer
Location Uses
Perennial Border, Patio
Special Uses
Container, Cut Flowers
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
In shrub areas, convert from spray sprinklers to bubbler or drip systems that apply water directly to roots.
Occasionally check the soil's moisture level around shrubs before and after watering to determine if watering times are appropriate.