Some gardeners may not be familiar with the genus name, Lychnis, but have been growing these plant,
commonly known as Maltese cross or Jerusalem cross for years. They are an old-fashioned flower
which has been in cultivation for over 300 years, with Maltese cross being the most commonly grown
of the genus Lychnis.
A native of Russia and Siberia, it had spread as far as the Mediterranean region by the Middle Ages.
It is said to have been introduced to Europe during the time of the Crusades by the Knights of Malta.
It was an early import to the American colonies, and Thomas Jefferson sowed it in one of the oval beds at
Monticello in 1807.
Flowers are normally a bright scarlet orange-red, possibly being the most brilliant scarlet
herbaceous plant we have. There are also some varieties with pink, white and double flowers, but
these aren't nearly as common.
Blooming for a short time in early summer, the scarlet flowers are formed in dense terminal heads,
consisting of many individual florets, each with 4 petals in the shape of a cross. Flowers are 3-4
inches in diameter and are borne atop four-foot stalks. Deadhead to promote more flowers.
Excellent foliage of mid-green with opposite, ovate and toothed 2-4 inch leaves clasping the stems.
The upright stems are rather hairy and coarse.
The brilliant flowers make this plant indispensable where bold splashes of rich color are desired.
They look wonderful when planted in small groupings to add bold color to borders, flower gardens or
planted among shrubs.
