Photo: KENPEI · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Crocosmia
Crocosmia sends up graceful arching sprays of fiery orange, red and gold funnel-shaped blooms on branching stems. A vigorous South African hybrid, it delivers hot, high-summer colour and a natural, flame-like line to arrangements. Florists prize both the flowers and the beaded green seed pods that follow, which add wiry texture to autumnal designs. Its warm tones and sweeping movement make it a favourite for garden-style and seasonal work.
| Family | Iridaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Garden hybrid of South African species |
| Peak season | July, August |
| Availability | July, August, September |
| Stem length | 40–70 cm |
| Vase life | 5–10 days |
| Colors | orange, red, yellow |
| Price tier | budget |
Cut the arching stems on a slant and place in clean, cool water with flower food. Buds open in sequence along the sprays, so the display develops over several days. Strip lower leaves to keep water clean and recut if stems soften. The green seed pods that follow flowering are also long-lasting and useful as textural line material.
- •Cut stems on a slant
- •Strip lower foliage
- •Use flower food
- •Buy with lower buds colouring
- •Change water every 2-3 days
- •Keep cool out of heat
Frequently asked questions
When is Crocosmia in season?
Crocosmia peaks in July, August, and florists can usually source it July, August, September. Availability shifts by region and greenhouse supply.
How long does Crocosmia last in a vase?
Expect 5–10 days with proper conditioning — a clean vase, fresh water every couple of days, flower food, and a cool spot away from ripening fruit and direct heat.
What can I use instead of Crocosmia?
Good substitutes for Crocosmia include Gladiolus, Kangaroo Paw, Gloriosa Lily. Match on look, colour and season — our substitute finder ranks the closest alternatives.
What does Crocosmia symbolise?
Crocosmia is associated with passion, warmth, boldness, energy.
How do you care for cut Crocosmia?
Cut stems on a slant
