How to Grow Crocosmia 'George Davison'
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Crocosmia 'George Davison'
Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora 'George Davison'
flowerA vibrant summer-flowering perennial with arching sprays of orange-yellow blooms that resemble miniature fireworks. This cultivar produces elegant sword-like foliage and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds to the garden. It's a mid-height variety that adds movement and color to borders from mid-summer through early fall.
When should you plant Crocosmia 'George Davison' in your zone?
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Example Crocosmia 'George Davison' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Crocosmia 'George Davison'
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 'George Davison' blooms
Around Apr 29≈ 12 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-9; can survive zone 5b with winter protection
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Emergence & Establishment
4-6 weeksShoots emerge from corms in spring; fine sword-like green foliage develops rapidly
Ensure consistent moisture during this critical stage. Apply 2-3 inches of mulch around plants, keeping it away from shoots. Begin feeding with balanced fertilizer as growth starts.
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksDense clumps of upright, arching green foliage form; plant reaches full height
Continue regular watering (about 1 inch per week). Support with stakes or cages if in windy locations or if foliage becomes very tall and flops.
Flowering
6-10 weeks (mid-July through early September in northern zones)Elegant curved flower spikes emerge with numerous small orange-yellow star-shaped blooms opening progressively from bottom to top
Maintain consistent moisture to prolong flowering. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Watch for pests during peak bloom. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with bloom-promoting fertilizer.
Seed Formation & Decline
4-6 weeksFlowers fade; seed pods develop if flowers are not deadheaded; foliage gradually yellows and dies back
Allow some flowers to set seed if you want self-seeding plants, or deadhead entirely for tidier appearance. Begin reducing water as foliage fades.
Dormancy & Winter Rest
November through March (variable by zone)Foliage completely dies back; corms lie dormant underground
In zones 6 and warmer, mulch lightly after first frost to protect corms from extreme cold. In zone 5b, apply 3-4 inches of protective mulch. Reduce watering significantly.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray foliage with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe. Increase humidity around plants.
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Remove affected flowers; use sticky traps to monitor. Apply neem oil or spinosad if populations are high.
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and
(Gastropoda)
Hand-pick at dusk; apply diatomaceous earth around base. Beer traps or copper tape barriers can be effective.
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering. Remove affected foliage; apply sulfur-based fungicides if needed.
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryThe individual star-shaped florets of Crocosmia 'George Davison' can garnish salads and desserts, offering a subtle, slightly sweet flavor. Use pesticide-free flowers for best results. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdThe arching flower spikes are excellent for fresh or dried floral arrangements, providing long-lasting color and structure. They work especially well in mixed bouquets and modern, minimalist designs. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeThe abundant nectar and accessible flower structure make 'George Davison' highly attractive to butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees. It's a valuable addition to pollinator gardens and wildflower landscapes. [source]
Dried Arrangements & Botanical Art
CraftThe flower spikes dry beautifully when hung upside-down in a dark, airy space, retaining their warm color for months. Dried material is ideal for pressed flowers, wreaths, and botanical crafts. [source]
Harvest Tips
Crocosmias are grown as ornamental flowers; deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout summer. Cut stems for fresh arrangements by snipping at the base with clean shears. Flowers are best in early morning or late afternoon. For natural seed propagation, leave a few faded flowers to mature. Allow foliage to die back naturally in fall to transfer energy back to corms.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Crocosmia 'George Davison' was named after the British plantsman George Davison and is a hybrid cultivar, a cross between C. × crocosmiiflora parent plants.
- 🌱 The name 'Crocosmia' derives from the Greek words 'krokos' (saffron) and 'osme' (smell), although the fragrance is subtle compared to the spice.
- 🌱 In temperate zones, crocosmia corms can be dug up in fall and stored indoors over winter like gladiolus, then replanted in spring for a fresh start.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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