Coppertip

Crocosmia (Iridaceae) is a genus of corm-producing perennials from sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar, reaching 2 to 3 feet tall with erect, clumping growth. Trumpet-shaped flowers on arching spikes bloom from mid-summer to fall in colors ranging from gold and yellow through orange to red. The genus name comes from the Greek for saffron and smell. Over 400 cultivars have been produced.

Crocosmia grows in sun to part shade on moist, well-drained soils (pH 6.0 to 8.0) including high organic matter, loam, and sand, hardy in Zones 6a to 9b. It is semi-hardy, with corms injured below 28 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintenance is low and it attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Twospotted spider mites are the primary pest. Some hybrids, especially C. × crocosmiiflora, are invasive in parts of the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and the coastal United States.