Montbretia 'Kain'
Crocosmia 'Karin'
Full Sun
Easy care
Light watering
Frost Hardy
H4
RHS hardiness
-10°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
---|---|---|
Max | 50cm | |
50cm | Min | 20cm |
3 years to reach maturity
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has a mild fragrance
Montbretia 'Kain' Overview
Crocosmia 'Karin' is a vigorous and free-flowering perennial cultivar with linear foliage. In late summer, it produces upright stems that carry sprays of arching and long-lasting, deep red flowers. C. 'Karin' like a sunny sheltered position (although it will tolerate partial shade) and require fertile well-drained soil. They are frost hardy but the corms should be lifted and stored for winter in very cold areas. Also known as Montbretia 'Karin', these lovely eye-catching plants are suitable for planting against walls, at the edges of mixed borders and are often seen near the coast. They also make excellent cut flowers and good patio pot plants.
Common problems with Montbretia 'Kain'
Spider mites are the only pests that affect Crocosmia leaves. Spray dishwashing liquid to get rid of unwanted insects.
Montbretia 'Kain' Companion Plants
Plant alongside grasses, meadow flowers and small shrubs.
How to harvest Montbretia 'Kain'
Harvest flower stalks in mid-summer months. Harvest seeds in autumn and sow immediately or after the last cold spell.
How to propagate Montbretia 'Kain'
Seed
Sow seeds during autumn months after the seed pods have dried out. Sow to a depth of 1.5-2 mm in seed trays and cover with river sand. Germination should take place within 2 weeks.
Division
Division of large clumps should be done when the plant is dormant during winter. Offsets are the easiest and fastest way to propagate. Should take 3 years to maturity.
Special features of Montbretia 'Kain'
Attracts birds
Nectar drinking birds are attracted to this species.
Attracts useful insects
Bees, moths and butterflies
Drought resistant
This species requires very little water, which makes it a great addition to any water-wise garden.
Attractive flowers
Other uses of Montbretia 'Kain'
Ornamental
Crocosmia makes a stunning show carrying it's flowers above the leaves.