WSU Clark County Extension
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Maltese Cross

Scientific name: Lychnis chalcedonica
Taxonomy
Family:Caryophyllaceae
Type:Herbaceous perennials
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:3 to 10
Sun:Full to partial sun
Moisture:Medium
Plant Characteristics
Height:3 ft
Width:1 ft
Bloom:Summer flowers
Bloom Time:June to August
Bloom Color:Orange
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description For a mid-summer bloomer, Maltese Cross makes a great show with its scarlet 1/2 inch flowers in dense terminal clusters.

  Morphology:
Maltese Cross is a popular herbaceious perennial that can attain a mature height of 3’ with a 15” spread. While numeous cultivars have been introduced, the color orange-red color is the most popular. It's also known as Burning Love, Dusky Salmon or Jerusalem Cross. There are cultivars with pink or white blooms as well. An established plant can have many flower heads set upon its upright stems. This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies and/or birds.

  Adaptation:
The plant grows best in full sun and in any good soil, if provided with a constant moisture supply. The blooming period is extended if faded flowers are removed. In rich soils this may need to be staked to prevent flopping.

  Pests:
None reported.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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