Silene chalcedonica
TAXONOMY
FamilyCaryophyllaceae
GenusSilene
Zone3
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Silene chalcedonica, commonly known as Maltese Cross or Jerusalem Cross, is a perennial plant in the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to Russia and parts of Central Asia. The plant is known for its bright red, cross-shaped flowers and is often used in ornamental gardens. It undergoes a dormancy period during the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Maltese Cross
Maltese-Cross
Scarlet Lightning
Agrostemma chalcedonica
Lychnis chalcedonica
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Silene chalcedonica thrives in temperate climates with moderate temperatures. It prefers bright, direct sunlight and should be watered when the soil partially dries out. The plant enjoys moderate humidity and should be protected from extreme cold.Soil
This plant prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically every 4-6 weeks, to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.Repotting
Repot Silene chalcedonica every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage, and refresh the soil to provide new nutrients.Propagation
Propagate Silene chalcedonica through seeds or division. Sow seeds in early spring or divide mature plants in the fall. Ensure the new plants are well-watered and placed in a sunny location.Pruning
Prune the plant after flowering to remove spent blooms and encourage new growth. Cut back any dead or damaged stems to maintain the plant's shape and health.Toxicity
Silene chalcedonica is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to prevent any accidental ingestion.Additional
Silene chalcedonica is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of conditions, making it a popular choice for ornamental gardens. It attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding to its ecological value.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
