Introduced in 1912, award-winning Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'Star of the East' is still regarded as one of the best Montbretias. A strong performer without being aggressive, it produces decorative clumps of vertical pleated leaves which remain fresh and upright well into fall. They are topped by wands of very large, 4 in. wide (10 cm), soft orange blossoms which gradually open, from the bottom of the wand to the top, over 5-8 weeks, from mid to late summer. Emerging from deep orange flower buds, the flowers open widely to reveal their creamy throat adorned with burgundy freckles.

Award-winning Dahlia 'David Howard' makes quite an impression on onlookers with its profuse and showy vibrant apricot-orange flowers set against the very dark purplish bronze foliage. The fully double flowers, up to 4 in. wide (10 cm) are not top-heavy and remain upright and straight, even when it rains. Grows up to 36 in. tall (90 cm) and doesn't need much staking or support. Great garden or container variety, lovely dark bronze foliage.

A striking beauty with its dramatic, upright, large bronze leaves suffused purple, Canna indica 'Purpurea' (Canna Lily) adds height and interest to the garden and immediately provides a cheerful touch of the tropics. The bold foliage is topped from mid-summer to fall by stalks of small, brilliant orange-red flowers that attract hummingbirds. Vigorous, this rhizomatous herbaceous perennial is a highly ornamental plant that is perfect for the back of the border.