perennial

Rose Campion

Lychnis atrosanguinea

The Story

Plant Bio

Lychnis atrosanguinea, commonly known as the Blood Red Campion, is recognized for its vibrant red flower clusters and clumping growth habit.

Notable for its exceptionally deep red blooms that can brighten garden spaces and attract pollinators.

Uses & Benefits:

Lychnis atrosanguinea provides striking dark foliage contrasted with vibrant red flowers, ideal for borders and containers.

Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for xeriscaping.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southeastern Europe

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist during growing season.
Apply a balanced fertilizer every 6 weeks in spring and summer.
Prune dead or damaged stems in late winter to encourage new growth.
Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring for rejuvenation.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds indoors 6 weeks before last frost for earlier blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Use organic mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize in late fall
Avoid planting in overly shady spots

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Propagate
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid border plant with dark foliageColorful perennial for sunny garden beds

Companion Plants

Coreopsis Salvia Echinacea GaillardiaLavender

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Rose Campion questions

What zones can Rose Campion grow in?

Rose Campion is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Rose Campion deer resistant?

Yes — Rose Campion is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Rose Campion bloom?

Rose Campion typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Rose Campion need full sun?

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

Is Rose Campion drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Rose Campion handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.