Rose Campion
lychnis flos-jovis
Also known as: ["Campion","Mullein Pink"]
Overview
A vibrant perennial with silvery foliage and bright magenta flowers, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Lychnis |
| Botanical Name: | Lychnis flos-jovis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border in temperate climates
- 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: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but thrives with enrichment.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering to encourage reblooming.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning in late summer.
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 to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew in humid conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure soil is not waterlogged; amend with organic matter for better structure; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; tolerates cold winters; prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F) during active growth.
Monitor temperature extremes; adjust care based on seasonal changes; protect from sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic alternatives like compost for slow-release nutrients.
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 medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag if needed.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems to encourage branching; remove spent flowers to promote more blooms.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead or damaged stems; shape the plant as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling 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 container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose the right 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 at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Plants may become dormant or die back in freezing temperatures; roots can suffer damage if not insulated.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below -20°F.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type and dilution; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilizing; water before and after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLychnis flos-jovis is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLychnis flos-jovis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLychnis flos-jovis is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known significant toxic effects or physiological impacts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Rose Campion attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Rose Campion toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should Rose Campion be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; it is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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