Ragged Robin
lychnis flos-cuculi
Also known as: ["Ragged Lady","Cuckoo Flower"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with delicate, pink, ragged flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer, typically found in wet meadows and marshy areas.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Lychnis |
| Botanical Name: | Lychnis flos-cuculi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: moist meadows, garden beds, or containers with consistent moisture
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead spent flowers throughout the blooming season; light pruning in early spring if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun preferred); tolerates dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; in hot climates, provide afternoon shade; for indoor placement, use a bright, cool location with indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on weather and soil moisture.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not waterlogged; amend with organic matter for fertility; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in cooler climates and may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly to avoid excessive foliage growth; stop fertilizing before winter dormancy; use a balanced formula for even nutrition.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is not in full bloom.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with added perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back growing tips to encourage branching; cut spent flower stalks back to the base.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as needed; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth in spring and early summer, reducing frequency in late summer and fall; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in excessive heat; slow growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf damage; prolonged cold may lead to dormancy or death if not hardy in the region.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; avoid planting in frost pockets; choose hardy cultivars for colder regions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering during heatwaves; ensure good air circulation to reduce heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid late-season feeding; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during active growth (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLychnis flos-cuculi is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known toxic effects or physiological impacts when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLychnis flos-cuculi is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLychnis flos-cuculi, commonly known as ragged robin, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Ragged Robin attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is particularly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Where does Ragged Robin grow best?
A: It thrives in wet meadows, marshy areas, and damp soil conditions.
Q: Is Ragged Robin toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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