The Story
Plant Bio
Crocosmia 'Lucifer' features striking red flowers on tall spikes, creating an eye-catching display in gardens.
Known for its vibrant flower color and ability to attract hummingbirds, 'Lucifer' is one of the most popular cultivars of Crocosmia.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average to dry
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Cultivated hybrid, originally from South Africa
Toxicity
Toxic to pets if ingested
Bloom period
Late summer – Early fall
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck corms 4-6 inches deep in well-draining soil in spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy during growing season.
- Mist foliage during dry spells for lush growth.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 6 weeks during active growth.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall to rejuvenate plants.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun for best flowering and ensure good drainage to prevent rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during flowering 🌱
- Apply organic compost annually
- Remove spent flowers to encourage rebloom
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
- Do not plant in heavy clay soil without amendment ❌
- Avoid fertilizing late in the season to prevent weak growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Lucifer Crocosmia questions
What zones can Lucifer Crocosmia grow in?
Lucifer Crocosmia is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Lucifer Crocosmia deer resistant?
Yes — Lucifer Crocosmia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Lucifer Crocosmia bloom?
Lucifer Crocosmia typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Lucifer Crocosmia need full sun?
Lucifer Crocosmia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Lucifer Crocosmia drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Lucifer Crocosmia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Crocosmia to compare
Montbretia
Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora
Masonorum Mason's Crocosmia
Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'Masonorum'
Walberton's Yellow Montbretia
Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'Walberton Yellow'
Carmin Brilliant Montbretia
Crocosmia x hybrida 'Carmin Brilliant'
Emily McKenzie Crocosmia Montbretia
Crocosmia x hybrida 'Emily Mckenzie'
Crocosmia 'Prince of Orange'
Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'Prince of Orange'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Lucifer Crocosmia with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.