Crocosmia
asy-to-grow and free-flowering crocosmias are a good choice to add some bright colourful blooms to a bit of garden shade. The star-shaped, orange to dark red flowers are the inspiration for the common name of falling stars. Crocosmias are indigenous to the eastern regions of South Africa and as such prefer warmer climates, but they can be grown everywhere if mulched to keep them warm in the cold. Prepare the soil with plenty of compost and a handful of bonemeal and make sure the soil drains well. They will also grow in a sunny position and need moderate watering. Once they are in the garden they can stay there. Simply cut off the stems once they have yellowed and died down and they will pop up again in spring.
