Lychnis chalcedonica Maltese Cross

Common Name:
Maltese Cross

Description:
Lychnis chalcedonica ‘Maltese Cross’ is a striking, upright perennial known for its vivid clusters of scarlet-red flowers that form dense, rounded heads atop tall stems. Each individual bloom features distinctive cross-shaped petals, creating a bold and eye-catching display throughout late spring and summer. The bright flowers contrast beautifully against the plant’s mid-green, slightly hairy foliage, adding strong vertical interest to cottage-style gardens and mixed borders. Well-suited to Melbourne conditions, this hardy perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating periods of dryness once established while benefiting from occasional watering during extended heat. It is a reliable performer that attracts pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies, and can be deadheaded to encourage prolonged flowering. Ideal for adding vibrant colour and structure, Maltese Cross also works well as a cut flower.

Form:
*Shrub - Small

Mature Size:
Height: 80–120 cm
Width: 40–60 cm

Aspect:
*Full Sun
*Part Shade

Flowering:
*Flowers in Spring
*Flowers in Summer

Flower Colour:
Bright scarlet red

Key Attributes:
*Bee Attracting
*Bird Attracting
*Herbaceous
*Perennial
*Suitable for Cut Flowers

Toxicity:
Generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets.

Companion Plants:
Salvia
Lavender
Echinacea
Achillea
Rudbeckia
Gaura