Description
Maltese Cross Lychnis Seeds 6555.
Brilliant Scarlet-Red Umbels for Cottage Gardens and Cut-Flower Borders.
Maltese Cross (Lychnis chalcedonica) is an heirloom favourite prized for its dense, rounded umbels of brilliant scarlet-red flowers held high above fine, hair-like foliage. Blooming continuously from May through August on sturdy stems reaching 60 to 90 cm (and occasionally taller in ideal conditions), its striking cross-shaped flowers create an unforgettable focal point. Exceptionally hardy and adaptable, it thrives even in dry, sandy soils, making it an invaluable addition to perennial borders, cottage gardens, and long-lasting cut-flower arrangements.
Quick Seed Details
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Product Code: 6555
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Botanical Name: Lychnis chalcedonica
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Type: Open-Pollinated Hardy Perennial
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Hardiness: Zone 3
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Height: 60–90 cm
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Light Requirement: Full Sun
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Soil Preference: Adaptable; thrives in well-drained, dry, or sandy soils
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Germination: 28 days at 20°C (Requires light and cold stratification)
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Seed Count: Approx. 125 seeds per packet (1,650 seeds per gram)
What you need to know to Plant & Grow
Maltese Cross can bloom in its first year when started early indoors after a short cold stratification.
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Seed Preparation (Cold Stratification): Chill seeds in the refrigerator at 5°C for 2 to 3 weeks prior to sowing to break dormancy.
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Indoor Sowing: Start seeds indoors in early March for first-year blooms. Surface sow seeds onto a quality soilless growing medium and do not cover, as light is required for germination. Maintain a temperature of 20°C for the 28 day germination period. Move sprouted seedlings under grow lights before hardening off and planting outdoors after frost danger passes.
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Outdoor Direct Sowing: Direct sow outdoors in late fall. Overwintering allows the seed to undergo natural cold stratification for reliable spring emergence.
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Maintenance: Space plants 30 to 45 cm apart in full sun. Deadhead spent flower heads to encourage prolonged blooming into late summer.
Why Maltese Cross Lychnis Seeds belong in Your Garden
If you want fiery, scarlet-red colour that resists summer heat and dry soil conditions, Maltese Cross is a classic choice. Its dense flower heads, outstanding cold hardiness down to Zone 3, and strong appeal to hummingbirds and butterflies make it an essential centerpiece in Canadian gardens.
