Lychnis chalcedonica — commonly known as Maltese Cross or Jerusalem Cross — is a hardy perennial in the Caryophyllaceae (pink) family, native to eastern Europe and Russia. It is celebrated for its vivid clusters of fiery red flowers and its reliability as a long-lived, easy-to-grow border plant.
Growing 60–90 cm (2–3 feet) tall, Lychnis chalcedonica produces sturdy, upright stems clothed in medium-green, lance-shaped leaves. Atop these stems appear dense, rounded clusters of small, cross-shaped flowers, most often brilliant scarlet-red, though occasionally pink or white forms exist. The blooms appear from early to mid-summer and are highly attractive to butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
This plant thrives in full sun and moderately fertile, well-drained soil, though it tolerates a range of conditions, including clay and loam. It prefers consistent moisture during the growing season and benefits from occasional deadheading to prolong flowering.
Lychnis chalcedonica makes an excellent choice for cottage gardens, pollinator plantings, and mixed borders, where its intense color provides a dramatic contrast to blues, purples, and silvers. It is both cold-hardy and long-lasting, lending structure and brilliance to perennial displays.