Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'Lucifer'
Lucifer Montbretia
- Family
- Iridaceae
- Height
- 3-4 feet
- Width
- 1-2 feet
- Flower color
- Fiery scarlet-red, tubular flowers arranged in rows on gracefully arching stems
- Foliage color
- Sword-like green leaves
- Bloom time
- Mid to late summer, blooming for 5-8 weeks
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Maintenance
- Low; remove faded foliage in autumn and cover the crown with mulch for frost protection
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 9
- Wildlife
- Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies; deer and rabbit resistant
About this plant
Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'Lucifer' produces bold, arching stems lined with brilliant red, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom from midsummer into early fall. The vibrant blossoms rise above sword-like green foliage, adding a dramatic flair to garden borders and beds. Originating from hybridization efforts in the mid-20th century, 'Lucifer' was bred for its intense color and reliable performance.
The fiery red flowers are a magnet for pollinators, including hummingbirds and butterflies, bringing movement and life to the garden. As the season progresses, the blooms give way to decorative seed pods, adding late-season interest. With its bold presence and extended bloom period, 'Lucifer' brings a dynamic burst of color to summer and fall landscapes.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Bergenias · Sedums · Columbines · Lungworts · Daylilies · Japanese anemones
Design tip
Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. It takes sun or light shade, which makes it useful along the changing light of a bed edge or a partly shaded border.
