Many gardeners love rose campion plants as their flowers brighten up any space. This flower’s blooms can be pale pink, white, or magenta but the combination of their dark soft foliage and petals is what makes them so beautiful.
Rose champion (scientifically known as Silene coronaria) is native to the Middle East, Europe, and the northern countries in the African continent. People have called it rabbit’s ears, crown pink, bloody William, and mullein pink.
Read on and discover this interesting plant.
Basic Facts about Rose Campion
- Rose campion plant tends to grow up to 3 feet tall. They are small plants that do not take much space, so they can be easily paired with other types of brilliant magenta flowers.
- Each blossom will only last one day.
- This flower is also referred to as Lychnis coronaria, which is the Greek word for ‘’lamp.’’ This is very significant, as, in ancient times, the woolly leaves of this plant were used to make lamp wicks.
- The leaf looks like lambs’ ear because the leaves form a basal rosette, but the flowers don’t turn a different colour after they peak like betony flowers do.
- Rose campion is considered to be a short lived perennial plant.
- The lychnis coronaria plant will do best in the US Department of Agriculture zones 5 to 9.
How To Grow Rose Campion
Soil Requirements
Rose campion needs to have well-drained soil. Be careful with water near their roots, as they can suffer from root rot if they are exposed to water for long periods of time. Even in rock gardens, the rose campion shrub may thrive in dry soil, like most plants.
Sun Exposure
Even though this flower will survive if they are planted in a slightly shaded area, they definitely prefer to be fully exposed to the sun.
Water Needs
They need to be watered once a week. These plants are hardy, and they will thrive even in the middle of droughts!
Deadheading
It is important to note that rose campion flower will self-sow after they bloom. This means they will rapidly spread out in any winter garden or area. In fact, some people consider them as invasive species, as they grow aggressively.
If you would like to avoid this, you need to prune the plants in order to prevent them from releasing their seeds. Once the plant blooms in early spring, you need to deadhead it regularly, and soon the plants will die off.
Types of Rose Campion Flowers
A number of varieties are available as follows:
Abbotsford Rose
As its name suggests, this plant has rose-colored flowers that can grow up to 3 feet in height.
Alba
This variety has white flowers. It can grow up to 2 feet in height, but it is a slow grower.
Sky Rose
This flower has an intense blue color.
Angel Blush
This variety has white flowers and a pink tint in the center of the plant.
Atrosanguinea
One of the most common type, this flower has bright magenta petals.
Flora Plena
This is the only variety of rose campion that has double petals.
FAQs
How long does Rose Campion last?
Rose Campion (Lychnis coronaria) is a short-lived perennial that typically lasts for about 2-3 years. However, it often self seed, allowing new plants to emerge and continue the cycle.
Will Rose Campion grow in pots?
Yes, Rose Campion can be grown in pots or containers, but it may not reach its full potential compared to plants grown in the ground. Ensure the container has adequate drainage and provide regular water and nutrients for optimal growth.
Is Rose Campion hardy?
Yes, Rose Campion is considered a hardy plant, tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions. It is drought-tolerant once established and can thrive in various soil types, including poor, rocky, or moist soil.
Can Rose Campion be divided?
Yes, Rose Campion can be divided in late spring or late fall to propagate new plants. Dig up the plant, carefully separate the root clumps into smaller sections, and replant them in prepared soil. Ensure each division has sufficient roots and foliage for successful establishment.
Does rose campion like full sun?
Yes, Rose Campion thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and flowering. In regions with hot summers, providing some afternoon shade can help protect the plant from excessive heat.
Conclusion
The Lychnis coronaria plant is a low-maintenance perennial flower. This flower is a champion in the field, as it can withstand severe droughts, extreme weather, and pests and diseases. No other plant is as resistant as this flower.
In addition, rose campions are easy to grow, even for new gardeners. They will bring joy and color to any space!
For more interesting flowering plants to grow, check our list of flowering plants from A to Z.
