Lychnis coronaria Carmine Red (Rose Campion)

Lychnis coronaria Carmine Red (Rose Campion)

Also known as Rose Campion, this short-lived perennial forms a low mound of felted silvery-grey leaves, bearing upright stems in summer with loads of round carmine red to deep pink flowers. Readily self-seeds and new seedlings can be moved early spring / late autumn. Drought tolerant once established. Height 75 cm. Spread 45 cm.

Cultivation advice Lychnis Coronaria Carmine Red (Rose Campion)

• Surface sow under cover onto moist well-drained fine seed compost.
• Press seeds lightly into soil but do not cover. Light is needed for germination.
• Germination 10-20 days at 20°C.
• Transplant seedlings when they have 2 sets of true leaves to 8cm pots.
• Acclimatise and plant out once danger of frost has passed.
• Prefers moist fertile soil in sun or partial shade.
• Cut back after flowering to encourage further blooms and to prevent self-seeding. Will self-seed freely.