How to Grow Crocosmia 'Fireking'
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Crocosmia 'Fireking'
Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'Fireking'
flowerCrocosmia 'Fireking' is a striking ornamental perennial with vibrant orange-red flowers that bloom in mid to late summer. This cultivar produces arching sprays of star-shaped flowers above sword-like foliage, creating dramatic color and movement in garden borders. It's a reliable, low-maintenance plant that attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
When should you plant Crocosmia 'Fireking' in your zone?
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Example Crocosmia 'Fireking' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Crocosmia 'Fireking'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Crocosmia 'Fireking' blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Crocosmia 'Fireking' dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-9; can grow in zone 5 with winter protection
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Dormancy/Planting
Variable; plant in spring or fallCorms are dormant and ready for planting in spring (after last frost) or fall (in mild climates)
Plant corms 2-3 inches deep, 6-8 inches apart in well-prepared soil. Water gently after planting.
Emergence & Early Growth
4-6 weeks after plantingSword-like green foliage emerges from the soil, growing upright and arching slightly
Keep soil consistently moist. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly. Remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Vegetative/Stem Development
6-10 weeksPlant grows taller with multiple stems developing; foliage forms attractive clumps 24-36 inches tall
Continue regular watering and monthly fertilization. Provide support stakes if in windy locations. Remove weeds.
Flowering
6-8 weeks (mid-July through September)Dramatic orange-red star-shaped flowers appear on arching sprays, opening progressively from bottom to top
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Water regularly during flowering. Enjoy cut flowers.
Post-Bloom & Dormancy Preparation
October through winterFlowers fade and seed pods develop; foliage begins to yellow and decline as plant enters dormancy
Stop deadheading to allow seed development (optional). Reduce watering gradually. Leave foliage until frost kills it back, then cut to ground level. Mulch heavily in cold climates.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove by hand in early morning or evening; use beer traps, copper barriers, or diatomaceous earth; encourage natural predators like ground beetles
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Spray foliage with water to increase humidity; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if infestation is severe; avoid overhead watering
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Remove affected flowers; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; thin overcrowded plantings to improve air circulation
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Dust corms with sulfur before planting; remove and destroy affected plants; treat soil with appropriate insecticide if recurring
Uses
Ornamental garnish
CulinaryWhile not edible, the striking flower sprays can be used as dramatic garnishes for formal table settings and floral arrangements. [source]
Cut flowers & floral arrangements
HouseholdCrocosmia 'Fireking' is an excellent cut flower with long vase life and architectural form, perfect for mixed arrangements, vases, and wedding floristry. [source]
Hummingbird & pollinator attraction
WildlifeThe tubular orange-red flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, making this plant excellent for wildlife gardens and pollinator support. [source]
Dried flower arrangements
CraftFlower sprays can be dried for use in dried arrangements and craft projects, maintaining their warm color and sculptural form for months. [source]
Garden color & landscape design
HouseholdCreates dramatic mid-to-late summer color in mixed borders, cottage gardens, and contemporary landscapes, serving as a focal point or accent plant. [source]
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers in early morning when stems are turgid. Harvest sprays when the bottom 3-4 flowers are open and upper buds are showing color. Remove lower foliage below the waterline. Cut stems last 7-10 days in a vase with fresh water and floral preservative.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Crocosmia 'Fireking' was bred in South Africa and is closely related to Montbretia; its genus name comes from the Greek words for 'saffron' and 'smell,' though the flowers have little scent.
- 🌱 The flowers open progressively from bottom to top along the spray, meaning a single stem can provide 3-4 weeks of color as buds continue to unfold.
- 🌱 Despite its tender appearance, this plant is quite cold-hardy and can survive zone 5 winters with 3-4 inches of mulch protection; it's actually hardier than many classic summer bulbs.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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