Lychnis

( LIK - niss )

At-A-Glance Information

This genus of perennials are considered old-fashioned garden flowers which are tolerant of poor soils. They need full sun and have varying water needs. Flower color varies, as well, depending on the species grown. 

Lychnis Species and Varietals

The best growing zones for Lychnis vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Lychnis x arkwrightii
This hybrid is a perennial, though it is most commonly treated as an annual. It grows well in zones 3-9 and 14-24, reaching 1.5 feet tall and a foot wide. Green leaves are somewhat brown-tinted, and flowers are orange-red. This species needs regular water for best performance. Varietal 'Vesuvius' has brown-purple foliage. 

​Lychnis chalcedonica (Maltese Cross)
This perennial grows best in zones A1-A3, 1-10, and 14-24 and is native to Russia. It has an open habit, and reaches2-3 feet tall and a foot wide. Foliage is covered in small hairs and flowers are deep red. Great for large border plantings and pops alongside lighter-colored plants. Needs regular water. Variety 'Alba' has white blossoms.

​Lychnis coronaria (Crown-Pink, Dusty Miller, Mullein Pink, Rose Campion)
This perennial grows best in zones 1-9 and 14-24, and is native to the southeastern regions of Europe. It reaches 1.5-2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide, with light green foliage and magenta to red flowers. All varieties of this species will self-sow freely if not controlled, and need moderate water. Varietals include 'Alba' (with white flowers) and 'Angel's Blush' (with white flowers that have a red eye).

​Lychnis viscaria 'Splendens'
This species is native to Europe and Asia and is a perennial. It does best in zones 1-10 and 14-24 and grows to 1 foot tall and just as wide. It forms an evergreen clump of grassy leaves and produces pink to rose colored flowers. This is a great candidate for rock gardens and also does well as a cut flower. Needs regular water. Variety 'Splendens Plena' (pictured) has double-flowers.

Caring for Lychnis

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Pages 423 - 424, Lychnis
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