Lychnis chalcedonica

Maltese Cross

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Hardy perennial with distinctive red star-shaped flowers, native to SE Europe and SW Asia. Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil conditions.
yard Outdoor plants wb_sunny Sun pets Pet Friendly
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Plant Details

Common Name Maltese Cross
Family Caryophyllaceae
Genus Lychnis
Species Chalcedonica
Origin Southeastern Europe / Western Asia
Blooming Summer flowering perennial, red star-shaped blooms.
Leaf Color Grey-green to blue-grey foliage
Sunlight Sun
Category Outdoor plants
Pet Friendly check Yes
yard

Care & Maintenance

terrain
Soil

Well-drained, alkaline or neutral soil. Avoid heavy clay.

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Watering

Keep moist during establishment; drought tolerant once mature. Do not overwater.

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Sunlight & Care

Full sun is essential for vibrant flowering and compact growth.

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Fertilization

Low nutrient requirements, apply balanced fertilizer in spring.

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Pruning

Deadhead spent flowers to prevent self-seeding or cut back after flowering.

Pest Control Aphid Powdery Mildew Slug Snail

These are the insects and pathogens that commonly interact with this plant, including pests, parasites, and organisms typically associated with its care.

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Seasonal Periods

local_florist Flowering Period 3 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
eco Leaf Persistence 12 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
thermostat

Growing Parameters

thermostat
Temperature
5° – 95°
Fahrenheit
Ideal ambient air temperature range for healthy growth
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Humidity
40% – 80%
% relative
Optimal relative air humidity the plant thrives in
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Light (LUX)
3000 – 60000
Lux
Ambient illuminance level at the plant's surface
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Light (PAR)
1000 – 2500
mmol/m²/s
Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) intensity
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Soil Moisture
20% – 60%
% volumetric
Water content in the growing medium
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Soil EC
300 – 1500
mS/cm
Electrical conductivity (nutrient concentration in soil water)

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