Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’

Montbretia

£9.95

Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ is a fiery and vibrant perennial known for its striking crimson-red blooms. Standing tall with graceful arching stems, it adds a bold splash of colour to any garden. This easy-to-grow plant attracts butterflies, making it a delightful choice for summer floral displays.

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Origin: Garden hybrid
Genus: Crocosmia
Species / Cultivar: masoniorum x paniculata var. 'Lucifer'
Common Name: Montbretia
Synonym: Crocanthus masoniorum

Plant Biography

Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ is a spectacular hybrid between Crocosmia masoniorum and Crocosmia paniculata raised by Alan Bloom in Norfolk, combining the best qualities of each parent. Pleated erect fans of bright green sword-like leaves are topped by drooping heads of the brightest vermillion red with individual flowers cheekily holding themselves above the horizontal.

The upright habit gives a wonderful contrast with most foliage and, when combined with other primary colours, few garden plants are quite as eye catching: many red cultivars have been bred but none have bettered ‘Lucifer’ for sheer in-your-face exuberance.

Crocosmia 'Lucifer'
Soil: Moist but Well Drained
Soil that allows water to drain at a moderate rate, without the water pooling.
Growth Rate: Fast
Expect to see prolific growth, especially during growing season.
Water Requirement: Medium
Once it is established, this plant is likely to only require watering during drier periods.
Maintenance: Low
Minimal skill or input needed beyond the basics, a very independent plant.
Situation: Full Sun to Part Shade
Enjoys direct sun most of the day, but tolerant of fewer sunlit hours or light dappling.
Eventual Height: 1.5-2m
The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.
Eventual Spread: 0.1-0.5m
The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.
Hardiness: Hardy
Survives unprotected in an average winter. May need protection in extreme long frosts.
Lifecycle: Perennial
This plant is persistant and does not die off after flowering. It will return each season indefinitely, if provided with suitable growing conditions.
Care & Size Guidance

Care & Size Guidance

Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ prefers well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with compost to improve drainage. Choose a well-draining location with full to partial sunlight. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil. Plant the corms (bulb-like structures) in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. Plant corms about 3-4 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart.

Water the plant regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering after the blooming period and allow the foliage to die back naturally.

Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Fertilize once or twice during the growing season with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Expert Tip

To encourage even more vigorous blooming and to maintain the plant's overall health, consider applying a phosphorus-rich fertilizer specifically formulated to promote flowering. Apply this fertilizer in early spring, just as new growth is emerging, following the manufacturer's recommended dosage. This extra boost of phosphorus can lead to an impressive display of fiery red blooms on your Crocosmia 'Lucifer'.
Pruning and overwintering

Pruning and overwintering

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent the plant from diverting energy to seed production. After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally. This provides energy to the corms for next year’s growth.

Crocosmia ‘Lucifer’ is generally hardy in the UK. In colder zones, it may benefit from a layer of mulch or straw to protect the corms from harsh winter conditions. If you’re concerned about extreme cold, you can dig up the corms after the foliage has died back and store them in a cool, dry place over the winter, then replant in the spring.

Remember that local climate conditions can influence specific care requirements, so it’s a good idea to observe your plants and adjust your care routine as needed.

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