perennial

Maltese Cross

Silene chalcedonica

The Story

Plant Bio

Silene chalcedonica is an erect, clump-forming herbaceous perennial native to Eurasia, characterized by stout, unbranched green stems and opposite, lanceolate leaves with rough margins. In summer, it produces dense, flat-topped terminal clusters of brilliant scarlet-red flowers, with each petal deeply notched into lobes that resemble a Maltese cross.

This species is highly valued in cottage gardens for its intense red summer display and its ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Unlike many red-flowering perennials of similar appearance, it is fully hardy down to USDA Zone 3 and thrives in consistently moist meadow-like conditions.

Uses & Benefits:

Produces dense, flat-topped clusters of brilliant scarlet-red flowers that provide strong vertical accent and intense color in summer borders.

Excellent as a long-lasting cut flower with sturdy stems that hold up well in floral arrangements.

Nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds, native bees, and butterflies to the garden.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

40"

Width

24"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Consistent moisture

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eurasia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Summer

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained loamy or sandy soil.
Amend the planting area with organic matter to help retain consistent soil moisture.
Space plants 12 to 24 inches apart to allow adequate air circulation and prevent powdery mildew.
Water deeply and regularly during dry spells to keep the root zone from drying out completely.

Pro Tip

Avoid over-fertilizing, which causes the tall stems to become weak and floppy, requiring artificial staking. Plant in moist, organic-rich soil and maintain consistent moisture, as this species lacks the drought tolerance of desert-adapted red perennials.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Deadhead spent flower clusters regularly to prolong the summer blooming period.
Cut stems back to ground level in late fall after the foliage dies back.
Divide mature clumps every three to four years in early spring to maintain plant vigor.

Don't

Do not allow the soil to dry out completely, as the plant is intolerant of severe drought.
Do not over-fertilize with high-nitrogen feeds, which leads to weak, floppy stems.
Avoid planting in poorly drained, waterlogged soils where root rot can develop.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Cottage GardensPerennial BordersCutting GardensButterfly Gardens

Companion Plants

Asclepias tuberosa Penstemon Phlox paniculata Salvia nemorosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Maltese Cross questions

What zones can Maltese Cross grow in?

Maltese Cross is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Maltese Cross deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Maltese Cross, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Maltese Cross bloom?

Maltese Cross typically blooms in summer through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Maltese Cross need full sun?

Maltese Cross does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.