Latin Name: Lychnis chalcedonica
Alternative Names:
Main Uses: Ornamental, naturescape

Zone Hardiness: Zone 2 perennial
Exposure: Full sun
Height: 90 - 120 cm (36 - 48 inches)
Flower Colour: Red 
Flowering Time: Early through late summer

Seed Source: Organically grown

Germination: 14 - 21 days at 21ºC.
Indoors: 3 - 5 seeds per plug, 6 - 8 weeks before average last frost date. Starting this perennial indoors will increase the likelihood of flowers in the first season. Use biodegradable starter pots for easiest transplanting.  
Planting out: Plant in loose, fertile soil once all chance of frost has passed.
Direct Seeding: Maltese Cross can be direct-seeded to the garden in late May, but plants are not likely to flower in their first season. 
Planting depth: Surface, lightly pressed into the soil.
Spacing: Space transplants 12" apart.

Growing in Containers: Grows very well in larger containers and raised beds, although winter hardiness may be impacted.

Growing in Mixed Planters: Not well suited to mixed planters.

Fertilizing (Containers): Plant in a quality, well-draining organic-based potting mix. Feed regularly with organic fertilizer. An organic bloom-booster fertilizer at first onset of buds will encourage larger blooms and more abundant flowering.

Watering (Containers): Water containers deeply when top inch feels dry to the touch. Monitor pots every day or two during very hot weather.

Fertilizing (Garden): Plant in average garden soil, amended with compost on an annual basis. No additional fertilizing required. 

Watering (Garden): Water deeply to establish. Water mature plants weekly during hot weather.

Beneficials Attracted to this Plant: Many butterflies as well as bees love to feed on the nectar of Maltese Cross flowers. 

Notes: Deadhead flowers to promote tidy re-blooming. 

Suitability for Indoors: Not suited for indoors.