Evan, considering that Crocosmia are closely related to Glads, I don't think it's a big concern how early you get them planted in spring. I'm thinking about how you can stagger the bloom time of Glads by planting some every couple of weeks till mid June, and how the corms stay healthy and viable when planting is delayed. Well, having said that, I guess it is always a good idea to get them in the ground before they start sprouting, those tender sprouts can be easily broken off.
Polly, that's good to know about Lucifer's hardiness.