Maltese Cross
lychnis chalcedonica
Also known as: ["Maltese Cross","Maltese Cross Flower","Flame Flower"]
Overview
A hardy perennial with vibrant red flowers arranged in dense clusters, native to Asia and Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","cold hardy","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Lychnis |
| Botanical Name: | Lychnis chalcedonica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden beds or borders in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–34–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Well-draining to moderately draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in late fall or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate. Remove only dead or spent parts unless rejuvenation is needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun. Protect from intense midday heat in hot climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently during hot, dry periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
fertile, moist, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; Mulch to retain moisture; Avoid heavy clay without amendments.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C).
Protect from late spring frosts; ensure good air circulation in heat; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during the growing season
Fertilize once in spring; use a balanced formula; avoid high-nitrogen products.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings. Division is the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into sections with roots.
- Replant immediately.
- Water thoroughly.
- Stem cuttings: Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
Bright, indirect light; moderate humidity; consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix, such as garden soil with added sand or perlite.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with stem cuttings.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; Stem cuttings: roots in 4–6 weeks, mature plant in a season.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or spade, clean pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; Take cuttings in early morning; Keep cuttings out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead by cutting flower stalks at the base. Cut back foliage to ground level in fall or spring.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming and maintain tidy appearance. Cut back foliage in late fall or early spring.
Tools
Hand pruners, clean shears.
Checklist
Clean tools before use; Cut spent flowers; Remove dead foliage; Disinfect tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
For containers, use a pot one size larger with good drainage.
Method
Divide clumps into sections with roots; Replant in well-draining soil; Water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Not typically required unless grown in containers. Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; Divide or transplant carefully; Water after repotting; Mulch surface.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal issues. Allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure. Mix in sand or perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Plants may become dormant or die back in winter, but established roots can survive freezing temperatures.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in fall to insulate roots. Avoid planting in low-lying frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, flowers fade quickly, and growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates. Water deeply and mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after application; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as Lychnis chalcedonica is not heavy feeder.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLychnis chalcedonica is not known to pose a toxic risk to cats. It is generally considered safe for cultivation in environments where cats may be present.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLychnis chalcedonica is not known to pose a toxic risk to dogs. It is generally considered safe for cultivation in environments where dogs may be present.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLychnis chalcedonica is not known to have significant toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for cultivation and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Lychnis chalcedonica grow?
A: It typically reaches 2–3 feet in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is it drought-tolerant?
A: It is moderately drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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