Crocosmia 'Prince of Orange'

Crocosmia 'Prince of Orange': A Regal Blaze of Sunset Hues

Glowing with the rich warmth of a summer sunset, Crocosmia 'Prince of Orange' brings a regal flair to the late-season garden. Its vibrant, tangerine-orange blooms—touched with a hint of golden fire—appear in elegant succession along gently arching stems, rising above fans of upright, sword-shaped foliage. Blooming from midsummer into early fall, this cultivar offers a perfect blend of structure, movement, and radiant colour. Whether woven through a mixed border or standing as a focal point, 'Prince of Orange' delivers bold beauty with unmistakable presence.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 75–90 cm
• Spread: 45–60 cm, forming upright, clumping fans
• Flower Colour: Bright orange with golden undertones; tubular flowers on arching stems
• Flowering Period: Midsummer to early fall
• Foliage: Narrow, upright, iris-like green leaves
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part sun
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil; adaptable with added drainage

Uses and Benefits: Crocosmia 'Prince of Orange' is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking vibrant colour and late-season interest. Its tall stems and vivid flowers provide vertical contrast and eye-catching brightness when many perennials are beginning to fade. A favourite of hummingbirds, it’s well-suited for wildlife gardens, cutting gardens, and naturalistic plantings. It also performs well in mixed borders where bold colour and upright form are needed to extend the seasonal display.

Companion Plants: Plant Crocosmia 'Prince of Orange' with Echinacea 'Granada Gold', whose rich golden blooms echo the warm tones and provide a sturdy, sun-loving base. Add vertical structure with Panicum 'Northwind', whose upright, blue-green blades complement the fiery flowers with soft movement and architectural grace. Complete the composition with Sedum 'Autumn Joy', whose succulent foliage and dusky pink blooms add texture and extend interest well into fall.

Care Instructions: Grow in full sun with moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during dry periods to support blooming. In colder regions, apply a thick winter mulch to protect the corms, or lift and store them after frost. Divide clumps every 3–4 years in spring to rejuvenate growth and maintain vigor.

History: A standout among Crocosmia cultivars, 'Prince of Orange' descends from South African species admired for their fiery colours and graceful habits. Selected for its vivid, true-orange blooms and strong garden performance, it brings a slightly shorter stature than 'Lucifer' while offering the same late-summer brilliance. Its vibrant colouring and refined form have made it a favourite in both formal and naturalistic designs.

Final Thoughts: Bursting with warm, citrus-toned colour, Crocosmia 'Prince of Orange' is a striking companion to other sun-loving perennials. Planted with the golden dazzle of Echinacea 'Granada Gold', the upright refinement of Panicum 'Northwind', and the enduring presence of Sedum 'Autumn Joy', it becomes part of a glowing, pollinator-rich planting that carries the garden into fall. A royal selection for those who love colour, movement, and long-lasting seasonal drama.