Crocosmia paniculata (Klatt) Goldblatt

Scientific Classification and Native Range

Crocosmia paniculata (Klatt) Goldblatt is a bulbous flowering plant native to eastern South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini.

Native Habitat

In its native range, it grows in wet habitats including stream banks, marshes, and drainages.

Mature Plant Size and Morphology

Mature plants grow between 1.2 and 1.5 meters (4 to 5 feet) tall, and produce lanceolate leaves and flowers that range in color from deep orange to orange-brown.

Ornamental Use and Naturalization

This species is a popular ornamental plant, and it has escaped cultivation to become naturalized in wild areas of the United Kingdom.

Common Name Etymology

Its common name, Aunt Eliza, comes from the former generic name Antholyza that was previously used to classify this plant.

Traditional Medicinal Use

In its native Lesotho, indigenous Sotho people use this plant as an antidiarrhoeal remedy, and administer it to both humans and cattle affected by diarrhea.