Silene chalcedonica - Maltese Cross - White

Silene chalcedonica is an erect deciduous perennial that grows to around 1m. It has large umbels of bright white flowers that have petals in the shape of the Maltese Cross that bloom in the summer months. It prefers full sun and requires constant moisture and well drained soil. It does well in loamy or sandy soils and prefers a sheltered exposure. Due to the height of the plant, staking may be required.

Excellent cut flower. Long 60 to 90cm stems. Long lasting up to 14 days. Harvest flowers when about a third of the flowers in the cluster are open. The remaining buds will open.

Sow seeds in autumn but only lightly cover with potting mix. Seeds need to be exposed to the cold for germination. If you are in a warmer area, place your seeds in an air tight container and place in the fridge for six weeks before sowing. Keep seeds damp but not wet. Seeds germinate at approx 20C. Grow seedlings to approx 10cm, harden off and then transfer into the garden.

Also known as Lychnis chalcedonica.

Seeds currently available.

$5.00 - 20 open pollinated seeds

$4.00 - postage within Australia

Email to order - fascinatingbotanicals@gmail.com

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