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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
Useful Edible Plants Future

 


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