Crocosmia ‘George Davison’ is a part of the Crocosmia genus, which belongs to the Iris family, Iridaceae, and is native to South Africa. It is a hybrid that resulted from a cross between Crocosmia aurea and Crocosmia pottsii. It was registered in 1900 and since then has been a popular garden choice ever. since. This cultivar forms clumps of sword-shaped foliage and produce showy flowers.
This plant is a herbaceous perennial, growing up to 2 to 3 feet tall. It has erect, sword-shaped leaves and branched stems that carry several light orange-yellow flowers that open from orange buds. The plant is ideal for hot color schemes in beds, borders, and containers. It thrives in full sun to part shade, preferring full sun in cooler climates and some afternoon shade in hotter areas. It grows best in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral pH. It is not only a beautiful plant to the garden, but it also attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators.
Characteristics of Crocosmia ‘George Davison’
- Size: It grows to a height of 1.50 to 2.50 feet (45 to 60 cm) with a spread of 1.50 to 2.50 feet (45 to 60 cm).
- Growth Rate: It is a clump-forming perennial.
- Growth Habit: It has an upright, clump-forming growth habit.
- Leaves: The plant features sword-shaped leaves.
- Stems: It has erect, unbranched stems.
- Flowers: It produces bright yellow-orange flowers that bloom from mid to late summer. These flowers have a hint of orange and are attractive to butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators.
- Root System: It has corms as its root system.
- Lifespan: It is a perennial, which means it lives for more than two years.
- USDA Zones: It is hardy in USDA Zones 5 to 9.
- Toxicity: The plant is not mentioned to be toxic to humans or pets, but it’s always best to confirm with a reliable source before consumption or contact.
- Soil: It prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral pH of 6.0 to 8.0.
- Water: The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Drought Tolerance: It has some tolerance to drought, but consistent moisture is necessary for optimal growth.
- Light: It thrives in full sun to part shade, with preference for full sun in cooler climates and some afternoon shade in hotter areas.
- Hardiness: In colder zones, the corms may need to be lifted in fall, dried, and stored for winter in a dry medium in a cool but frost-free location for protection.
- Propagation: It can be propagated by dividing the corms.
- Maintenance: It requires minimal maintenance once established, with occasional division to keep the clumps vigorous.
- Pests and Diseases: It is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by common garden pests and diseases like aphids, slugs, and fungal diseases.
How to plant, Grow and Care For Crocosmia ‘George Davison’
Planting
- Select a planting site that receives full sun to partial shade. Ensure the area has well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging.
- Plant corms in spring after the danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature reaches around 55°F (13°C).
- Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve drainage and fertility. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH level.
- Plant Crocosmia rhizomes about 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 centimeters) deep and space them 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) apart.
- Water newly planted rhizomes thoroughly to settle the soil around them. Maintain even moisture until plants become established.
Growing
- Water regularly during the growing season, especially during hot weather. Aim to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth emerges. You can also add a light layer of compost mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and provide some nutrients.
- Every 3-4 years, you can divide congested clumps in early spring or fall. Carefully dig up the corms and separate them, replanting the largest and healthiest ones.
Care
- Remove spent flowers to encourage continued blooming and prevent unwanted self-seeding. Simply cut the flower stalk down to the base.
- In colder climates (USDA zones below 5), corms may need winter protection. After the first frost, cut back the dead foliage and apply a layer of mulch (such as shredded leaves or straw) around the base of the plant to insulate the corms. Remove the mulch in spring after the danger of frost has passed.
- Crocosmia ‘George Davison’ is generally pest and disease resistant. However, they may be susceptible to slugs and snails, especially in moist conditions.
- Divide overcrowded clumps every few years in early spring or fall to rejuvenate the plants and prevent them from becoming too crowded.