Montbretia (Crocosmia aurea)

Family: Iridaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Crocosmia aurea is a CORM growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

A yellow dye is obtained from the flowers and used as a saffron substitute for colouring foods. — A yellow dye is obtained from the flowers and used as a saffron substitute for colouring foods.

Habitat & North American Range

Shady forest areas in moist country, 2000 - 2500 metres from East Cape province and north to Mozambique, Malawi etc. Especially common in conifer plantations. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)