How to Grow Maltese Cross (Lychnis): Scarlet Blooms for Butterflies and History

How to Grow Maltese Cross (Lychnis)

Maltese Cross (Lychnis chalcedonica), aka Jerusalem Cross, Burning Love Flower, is a striking 3–4 foot perennial with hairy stems/leaves and dense, scarlet-red (also red-orange, white, pink) cross-shaped florets in rounded heads. Native to Russia/Siberia; brought to Europe by Knights of Malta during Crusades. Drought-tolerant, butterfly-friendly. Back of border, edging, naturalized areas.

Propagation

Sow seeds directly or indoors 6–8 weeks early. Cover ⅛ inch. Germinates 10–15 days (heat mat helps). Space 12–15 inches. Divide rootballs spring/fall.

How to Grow Maltese Cross

• Light: Full sun; tolerates part shade.
• Soil: Loose, rich, well-drained. Dry side preferred—wet kills.
• Fertilizer: Monthly.
• Maintenance: Weed well. Clean hairy foliage gently. Deadhead entire stem for rebloom. Water in worst drought. Heat/drought tolerant. Invasive—edge 4–6 inches deep.

Bloom Time

Summer (year two).

Pests & Diseases

Uncommon.