Maltese Cross
Silene chalcedonica
Firefly
About this plant
Silene chalcedonica, commonly known as Maltese Cross, is a striking perennial plant known for its bright red, star-shaped flowers that bloom in early to mid-summer. The flowers form dense clusters that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. It is often used in garden borders and cottage gardens for its vibrant color and long blooming period.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Silene
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Caryophyllales
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Russia, Eastern Europe
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide, originally native to parts of Russia and Eastern Europe.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -30 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 3-8
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, garden soil
Watering. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth. Additional feeding during the growing season is usually not necessary if the soil is fertile.
Silene chalcedonica is a hardy perennial that grows well in full sun and well-drained soil. It requires moderate watering and is generally resistant to pests and diseases. Deadheading spent flowers encourages more blooms, and it needs little maintenance overall.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Division
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Bright red, star-shaped flowers in dense clusters; attractive green foliage; upright growth habit.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe for gardens with children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Silene chalcedonica can produce pollen that might cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially during its flowering season. People with pollen allergies should avoid close contact or wear a mask when near the plant. Washing hands after handling can help reduce exposure.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, and poor drainage may lead to fungal diseases. Lack of sunlight can reduce flowering. Occasionally, aphids may appear but are usually manageable.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for garden borders and flower beds due to its bright red flowers and long blooming period.
Notes
Prune back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage a tidy appearance. It can self-seed if conditions are favorable. Suitable for garden beds and borders but not commonly grown as a houseplant.