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Crocosmia aurea Montbretia (1 Page of 5) The Crocosmia aurea plant species is found in S. Africa. It is a member of the Iridaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Montbretia. Some home gardeners know the variety as Tritonia aurea Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Crocosmia aurea Common Name: Montbretia Family: Iridaceae Author: (Hook.)Planch. Known Hazards: None known Mature Height: 1 Mature Width: 0.5 Habitat: Shady forest areas in moist country, 2000 - 2500 metres from East Cape province and north to Mozambique, Malawi etc[79]. Especially common in conifer plantations[90].
Cultivation Notes: A very easily grown plant, it succeeds in almost all soils other than very heavy clays or bogs[233], though it prefers a light rich sandy soil[1, 79] in full sun or light dappled shade[200, 233]. Another report says that it prefers a fairly shady position and plenty of moisture in the growing season[79].
The corms are hardy to about -10°c[200] but in cold areas it is wise to lift them when the plants die down in the autumn, store them in a cool frost-free place over the winter and plant them out in the spring[1]. Make sure the corms do not dry out[1]. It is best to avoid lifting the corms if at all possible since the new corms seem to derive some nutrition from the old corms that have flowered[200].
Plants can divide quite freely when growing in a suitable location[233].
Although the fresh flowers have no perfume, when dried and immersed in warm water they release a scent like that of the saffron crocus[245].
Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer or rabbits[233].
For further Crocosmia aurea gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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