Hi Dave: Many thanks for the suggestions for companion plants. Most of these genera are new to me so a few trials will probably be in order. Would really appreciate Crocosmia seeds of those you think have a potential for hardiness and that have a chance of coming true. Eucomis is also a 'late arriver' in the Chicago area, well after frost (usually). Boyce Tankersley btankers@chicagobotanic.org >>>>Newer Crocosmia cultivars are very showy and have been tried but apparently are not reliably hardy (perhaps the chipmunks favor the corms - I know the deer and rabbits apparently relished the foliage or maybe it is a simply lack of cold temperature hardiness). You must try hybrids from both C. masoniorum or C. paniculata, indeed C. pearsei may be hardy if you can get it. Fortunately there are a lot of hybrids between both C. masoniorum and C. paniculata, and you should have the best luck with these. Some of the corms of these are about the size of tennis balls and hence you will be able to plant these much deeper than any other Crocosmia. I'll have save some seed for you, as some of these come relatively true from seed, eg. 'Zeal Giant'. >>>>>We continue to observe and modify the theories. Part of the fun of this profession. We do, and it sure is. Best Wishes, Dave Websites: http://www.theafricangarden.com/ http://www.crocosmiaheritage.com/ Address: David Fenwick NCCPG National Collection of Crocosmia with Chasmanthe and Tulbaghia The African Garden 96 Wasdale Gardens Estover Plymouth Devon England PL6 8TW --- Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free. Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com/). Version: 6.0.507 / Virus Database: 304 - Release Date: 04/08/03 _______________________________________________ pbs mailing list pbs@lists.ibiblio.org http://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/list.php