Falling Stars
Crocosmia aurea
Also known as
Valentine Flower, Montbretia
Photo by leeT (All rights reserved)
Full Sun
Easy care
Light watering
Tender
H5-H1c
RHS hardiness
-15°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
1m | Max | 60cm |
50cm | Min | 40cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has a mild fragrance
More images of Falling Stars
Falling Stars Overview
This strikingly beautiful garden species produces numerous bright orange flowers on tall thin flower stalks which make it perfect for a vase. This plant loves to grow in most habitats and tends to produce large groups or clumps that fill an area relatively fast. It requires little watering outsidethe rainfall season, therefore it is an excellent addition to any water-wise garden.
Common problems with Falling Stars
Spider-mites are the only pest that affect Crocosmias leaves. Spray dishwashing liquid to rid of unwanted insects.
How to harvest Falling Stars
Harvest flower stalks in mid-summer months. Harvest seeds in autum, and sow immediately or after the last cold spell.
How to propagate Falling Stars
Seed
Sow seeds in autumn months after the pods have dried out. Sow to a depth of 1.5-2 mm in a seed tray and cover with river sand. Space seeds 20 cm apart. Germination should take 2 weeks.
Division
Dividing of large clumps should be done when the plant is dormant (in winter). Offsets are the easiest and fastest to propagate. Should take 3 years to maturity.
Special features of Falling Stars
Attracts birds
Seeds are eaten by birds.
Attracts useful insects
It attracts useful insects such as bees, moths and butterflies.
Drought resistant
This species requires less water than its other close relatives, which makes it a great addition to any water-wise garden.
Pot plant
Suits well in any well-drained pot or container.
Attractive flowers
The flowers are arranged on continuous floral spikes. Individual flowers are approximately 40 mm in diameter.
Other uses of Falling Stars
Cutting bed
Medicinal
Used by indigenous tribes to treat dysentery
