Rose campion (Lychnis coronaria and cvs.) LIK-nis kor-on-AR-ee-ah Genus:  Lychnis

Gray-green, spear-shaped leaves form a low, tidy, circular mound about 1 foot in diameter. This plant puts on a dazzling show of five-petaled magenta flowers on straight stalks about 2 feet high in mid-spring. 

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

Disease-resistant and easy to grow. Effective when massed. Self-seeds freely. ‘Alba’ has pure white flowers; ‘Angel’s Blush’ has white petals with faint pink centers.

Care: 

Grows well in sunny, well-drained, lean soil.

Propagation: 

From seed. Or divide and take basal cuttings in early spring.

Problems: 

Anther smut and leaf spots.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Low Characteristics Self Seeds, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Spring Flower Color Pink, Purple Uses Beds and Borders Style Rock Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials