Crocosmia

The 7 Species of corms in this south African iris family genus are widely cultivated as ornamental though some of them are considered weeds in various parts of the world. They have long sword-shaped  leaves, sometimes conspicuously veined or pleated that may be near evergreen in mild climates.Flowering  occurs mianly during summer and autumn when arching sprays of usually 6-petalled flowers in bright orange and red shades appear. Cultivars cover a wide color range from yellow  to rusty brown and they last well when cut. The genus name  derived from greek krokos (saffron) and osme (smell) was given because the classifying botanist noticed a saffron-like scent when water was spilt on a dried specimen. They are commonly known as montbretia. 

CULTIVATION

Surprisingly hardy, they are easily grown  in full or half sun moist-drained soil. In areas where the soil freezes the corms may be stored dry over winter and replanted in spring. Propagate from offsets which are often numerous.             

Colhicum

This  genus of around 45 species of corms is found from eastern Europe to northern Africa and eastwards to China. Although not related to the true crocuses, the common name autumn crocus is an apt description of the habit  and appearance of many of the species. The are dormant and leafless  in summer. Their flowers have 6 petals, usually in 2 whorls and start to appear from early autumn before the foliage develops. Double flowered forms are available. This genus is famous as the source of the cancer treatment drug cochineal a mutagen that affects cell division it is sometime use by plant breeders to produce new cultivars.

CULTIVATION

Hardy and adaptable plants that are great favorites with enthusiasts of rockery gardens,  Colchicum species thrive in zones that have 4 distinct seasons. Some species require a hot dry summer to flower well but most plants are happy in any fertile well-drained soil in either full or half sun. they alson do well in containers.

SCABIOSA

An unpleasent sounding name, scabiosa is derived from scabies a Latin  word for scurf or mange the itchiness of which was said to be relieved by rubbing the affected area with the leaves of these plants. The genus, a member of the teasel family (Dipsacaceae), is composed of around 80 spaces of annuals and perennials found from Europe and north Africa to Japan.

CULTIVATION

The Plants are hardy and easily grown in any sunny position with moderately fertile, moist, free draining slightlu alkaline soil. deadhead to  prolong flowering, the annuals are raised from seed and the perennials can be propagated from seed from basal cutting or by division.