The Story
Plant Bio
Crocosmia 'Star of the East' is known for its vibrant orange flowers and sword-shaped foliage.
This cultivar stands out for its robust growth and excellent flower production during the summer months.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa (cultivated hybrid)
Toxicity
Toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, especially the corms
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late summer
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.
- Mist cuttings or establish from corms in early summer for new plants.
- Water regularly during active growth, especially in dry periods.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds during summer.
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in late winter or early spring.
Pro Tip
Plant corms in full sun for best flowering and growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during blooming season 💧
- Apply fertilizer in spring for vigorous growth
- Mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds
- Support tall flower stems if necessary 🌱
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Don't plant in poorly drained soil
- Refrain from cutting back foliage until it yellows naturally
- Avoid disturbing corms during active growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Star of the East Crocosmia questions
What zones can Star of the East Crocosmia grow in?
Star of the East Crocosmia is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Star of the East Crocosmia deer resistant?
Yes — Star of the East Crocosmia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Star of the East Crocosmia bloom?
Star of the East Crocosmia typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Star of the East Crocosmia need full sun?
Star of the East Crocosmia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Star of the East Crocosmia drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Star of the East 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
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Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'Lucifer'
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'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Star of the East 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.