Crocosmia ‘Prince of Orange’ is a striking perennial, celebrated for its vivid orange-red flowers that feature a distinctive burgundy-speckled gold center. This hybrid, developed in the Netherlands, brings a burst of fiery color to garden spaces from midsummer through late summer. Beyond its vibrant blooms, the plant’s upright, sword-like dark green foliage adds a textural element to landscapes, even when not in flower. It also produces decorative seed pods in the fall, which are popular for dried arrangements. This cultivar is known for attracting various pollinators, including hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
Planting Crocosmia ‘Prince of Orange’
Select an appropriate site for Crocosmia ‘Prince of Orange’. These plants thrive in full sun, which promotes the most abundant flowering, though they can tolerate partial shade. In regions with intense summer heat, providing some afternoon shade can help extend the bloom period and prevent scorching of the flowers.
Ideal soil is well-draining, moist, and rich in organic matter. While adaptable to various soil types, good drainage is necessary to prevent waterlogging. A soil pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 to 7.0) is suitable. For heavy clay soils, amending with compost or other organic materials improves drainage and quality.
Plant Crocosmia ‘Prince of Orange’ corms in spring, after the last threat of frost. Delaying planting until soil temperatures have warmed sufficiently can encourage quicker sprouting and establishment. Position corms with the pointed end upwards, 2 to 4 inches deep. Space corms 6 to 8 inches apart to allow for mature spread and prevent overcrowding. For visual impact, plant corms in groups or masses, enhancing concentrated color.
Caring for Crocosmia ‘Prince of Orange’
Once established, Crocosmia ‘Prince of Orange’ requires consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, to maintain healthy growth and flowering. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, avoiding overwatering which can lead to corm rot. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly before watering again.
While these plants appreciate fertile soil, they are not heavy feeders. Fertilization is often unnecessary if the soil is rich, as excessive nitrogen promotes foliage over blooms. If your soil is poor, a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost application in spring or early summer can be beneficial.
Crocosmia ‘Prince of Orange’ does not require extensive pruning. Deadheading spent flower stalks encourages more blooms and prevents energy expenditure on seed production. Allow foliage to remain until it naturally dies back in late fall. The green leaves continue to photosynthesize, storing energy in the corms for the following year’s growth and flowering. Once the foliage has turned brown and withered, it can be cut back to an inch or two above ground level, or left in place for winter insulation in colder areas.
Crocosmia ‘Prince of Orange’ is hardy in USDA Zones 5 through 9. In colder climates (USDA Zones 1-4), lift corms in fall before the first hard frost and store indoors in a cool, dry place over winter. In USDA Zones 5-7, a thick layer of organic mulch in late fall provides adequate winter protection. Placing plants in a sheltered location, like against a south-facing wall, offers additional winter protection. The plant has an upright growth habit, reducing the need for staking.
Propagating Crocosmia ‘Prince of Orange’
Propagate Crocosmia ‘Prince of Orange’ by dividing established clumps. This method ensures that new plants retain the characteristics of the parent cultivar. Division is best performed every two to four years, either in the fall after flowering or in early spring just before new growth begins. To divide, carefully dig up the entire clump and gently separate the corms.
Corms naturally multiply, forming new corms on top of older ones in a “conjoined string” formation. When dividing, prioritize replanting the newer, top two or three corms from these strings, as they are most vigorous and productive. Replant these cormlets directly into prepared soil following initial planting depth and spacing guidelines.
While seed propagation is possible, it is less common for named cultivars. Seed-grown plants may not consistently exhibit the exact ‘Prince of Orange’ traits, leading to variations in flower color or form. Collect seeds from decorative seed pods in autumn and sow, but new plants may take at least two years to reach flowering maturity.
Common Issues and Solutions
A common concern for Crocosmia ‘Prince of Orange’ is a lack of blooms. Insufficient light, especially too much shade, can reduce flowering. Overcrowding is another cause, as congested clumps lead to diminished vigor and fewer flowers. Nutrient imbalances, like excess nitrogen (promoting foliage over flowers) or potassium deficiency, also affect bloom production. Ensure full sun, divide congested clumps, and provide a balanced feeding regimen to resolve these issues.
Yellowing leaves indicate overwatering or a nutrient deficiency. Ensure proper soil drainage and adjust watering to avoid soggy conditions, preventing yellowing. Browning tips might suggest low humidity, though less common for outdoor plants.
Crocosmia ‘Prince of Orange’ is resilient to pests and diseases. Spider mites can pose a problem, especially in dry conditions. Hose down foliage with a strong water spray to dislodge pests and create an unfavorable environment. Serious diseases are rare, but corm rot can occur in poorly drained or waterlogged soils, manifesting as stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Ensure excellent soil drainage and avoid excessive watering to mitigate this.