Lychnis chalcedonica Alba

The Lychnis chalcedonica Alba, also known as the Jerusalem Cross or Lychnide, is a beautiful white form of this perennial herbaceous plant with summer flowering. The umbels are composed of multiple small flowers of pure white that bloom from June to August, and again in September if you take care to remove the faded flowers. A highly appreciated upright plant in the background of flower beds, the 'Maltese Cross' planted en masse will attract all eyes in borders and bouquets.

The Lychnis chalcedonica is a short-lived perennial plant from the family Caryophyllaceae, native to Eastern Europe, Central and Eastern Russia (Kazakhstan, Mongolia), and northwest China. This species is the only one in its genus that appreciates constantly moist soils and can withstand very cold winters. 'Alba' is a selected form for its white flowers. By observing its small flowers gathered in umbels, you will notice five petals, the upper part of which is slightly divided in two, which is why it is called the Maltese Cross or Jerusalem Cross. The inflorescence is composed of 15 to 30 flowers, each 2 cm (1in) in diameter. The stem of this Lychnis is erect, covered with dense hairs, and bears an umbel at its tip. Its lanceolate and opposite leaves, rather thick, are light and vivid green in color. Its habit, not very bushy, will encourage you to plant it in groups to enhance the overall effect. Its tall size, reaching up to 90 cm (35in) in height, makes it suitable for the middle or back of flower beds. It prefers rather moist soils and will thrive in full sun in cold regions. In rich soil, it may self-seed.

The Lychnis chalcedonica Alba is one of the summer flowers that best complements the brilliant color of the wild species, an intense red. Planted together, these two plants will form an elegant and perfectly complementary combination. Easy to mix with other flowers, this white Lychnis will naturally fit into a multicolored ensemble composed of wildflowers: daisies, centaureas, poppies, and grasses will be charming in its company. An excellent perennial plant used in gardens for a long time, the Jerusalem Cross, a bit outdated despite all its qualities, is inseparable from cottage gardens.