maltese cross
Silene chalcedonica
RHS AGM 1993
USDA zones3 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size1.5 to 3.5 feet tall4 to 20 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Columnar
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Red
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Maltese cross (Silene chalcedonica) is a perennial for borders, cut flowers, and cottage gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to moist, sandy, loamy, or chalky soil. It grows as an upright column of green leaves topped with red blooms in summer. Butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees visit the flowers. Deer and rabbits tend to pass it by.
Pairs well with Sweet William, Ox-eye daisy, and Little Beauty tulip.
Native range
Asia.