Silene chalcedonica
Maltese cross
An erect herbaceous perennial to 1m in height, with oval leaves and small, bright vermilion flowers in compact, domed heads 10-12cm in width
Other common names
common rose campionConstantinople campion
see morecross of Jerusalem
fireball
flower of Bristow
flower of Constantinople
gardener's delight
gardener's eye
great candlestick
Jerusalem cross
knight's cross
London pride
meadow campion
none-such
red Robin
scarlet lightning
scarlet lychnis
tears of Christ
Synonyms
Lychnis chalcedonica 'Red Cross'Lychnis chalcedonica
see moreLychnis chalcedonica scarlet-flowered
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Orange Red | Green | ||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Silene can be annuals, biennials or herbaceous or evergreen perennials, with opposite, untoothed leaves and solitary or clustered flowers with 5, usually notched petals
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- European Russia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist, fertile soil in sun or partial shade. May require support in windy situations
Propagation
Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame as soon as seed is ripe or in spring. Propagate by division or basal cuttings in early spring.
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead to prolong flowering then cut down in the autumn
Pests
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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