Crocosmia aurea aka Garragbate

Taxonomy

Crocosmia aurea, also known as falling stars, Valentine flower, or montbretia, is a stunning perennial flowering plant from the family Iridaceae. Standing at a height of up to 90cm, this cormous herbaceous perennial boasts long, ribbed, pale green leaves and sturdy, arching stems. From late summer to early autumn, it produces an abundance of large, rich golden yellow-orange flowers with elegantly swept-back tepals and prominent stamens. With its attractive foliage and vibrant blooms, Crocosmia aurea adds a touch of beauty to shady areas. Additionally, its bright orange, showy flowers make it a striking choice for floral arrangements.

Common names

Garragbate, Kahia Senga

How to care for Garragbate

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Garragbate, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Garragbate should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Garragbate is very sensitive to dry soil. To ensure your Kahia Senga is thriving and blooming, choose a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still allow for adequate drainage and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great soil additives that will help to retain moisture and provide your Garragbate with the nutrients it needs for healthy growth. Make sure to mix these soil additives into the potting soil before planting and water the soil thoroughly. By providing your Garragbate with a well-draining, moisture-retaining soil, you can help to maximize its growth and keep it blooming.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Garragbate prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for Garragbate plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Region of origin

Garragbate’s native range is S. Africa.


More info:
Wikipedia