| Additional Notes: Rich orange
tube-shaped flowers pertly arranged around a central axis; little clusters of flowers that
branch out into a typical freesia-like flower-spike - this architectural structure gives
the Crocosmia a character of its own. Anyone with a
good nose will also be able to make out the flower's modest, but highly specific saffron
scent. The name 'Crocosmia' contains the Latin 'croceus', saffron-colored - the Crocus
sativus is the source of our culinary saffron. Not only does the flower smell of saffron,
but it has the spice's deep rich golden-tan color too.
The flower's color is also reminiscent of its country of
origin, South Africa, conjuring up sun-baked savannahs, dusty red roads, and warm sandy
beaches. South Africa is also where the more common freesia, gerbera and gladiolus
originated. Perhaps Crocosmia will become as familiar, and as popular as these flowers?
With their fiery yellow, orange, red and tan colors they will create a sparkling network
of Indian Summer lights in any bouquet. |
