Rose Campion RHS Seeds

Lychnis coronaria, commonly known as Rose Campion, is a striking, hardy perennial that adds vibrant colour and texture to any garden. Its silvery-grey foliage and clusters of bright pink or red flowers create a bold contrast, making it a favourite for borders, cottage gardens, and wildflower meadows. Known for its resilience and beauty, Rose Campion is ideal for adding a pop of colour to dry, sunny spots where other plants may struggle.

 

The name Lychnis derives from the Greek word lykhnos, meaning lamp or light, referring to the plant’s bright flowers. Coronaria refers to the crown-like shape of the flowers, which appear in clusters at the top of sturdy stems. This variety is prized for its long-lasting blooms and ability to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a wonderful choice for wildlife-friendly gardens.

 

Awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM), Lychnis coronaria is a reliable and low-maintenance perennial that thrives in UK gardens. It is particularly noted for its ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soil and for its drought tolerance once established. The bright flowers of Rose Campion provide a cheerful splash of colour in the summer garden, and its silver foliage continues to add interest throughout the growing season.

 

Growing to a height of 60 - 75 cm, Rose Campion is perfect for adding structure and colour to mixed borders, wildflower plantings, or rockeries. Its upright growth habit makes it ideal for the back or middle of borders, while its compact size also makes it suitable for growing in containers or smaller spaces.

 

Seed Qty: Approx. 5000

 

Sow: February - April (indoors) or April - May (outdoors)

Germination: 14 - 28 days

Soil: Well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil; neutral to slightly alkaline pH

Height: 60 - 75 cm

Flowering: June - August

Companion Plants: Echinacea, Lavender, Salvia

Avoid Planting With: Moisture-loving plants

 

Rose Campion is a low-maintenance plant once established. It thrives in full sun and is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, though it performs best in well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil. This hardy perennial is drought-tolerant once established and requires little care beyond occasional deadheading to encourage further blooms. Cut back the plant in autumn to promote fresh growth in the spring.

 

Sowing Instructions

Indoors: Sow seeds in trays or pots filled with moist, well-drained compost from February to April. Press the seeds lightly into the surface, as they need light to germinate. Maintain a temperature of 18-20°C and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Transplant seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, and harden off before planting outdoors after the last frost.

 

Outdoors: Sow directly into prepared, well-drained soil from April to May, once the risk of frost has passed. Scatter seeds thinly on the soil surface and gently press them down. Keep moist until germination occurs. Thin seedlings to 30 cm apart to ensure healthy growth.

 

With its eye-catching flowers and silvery foliage, Rose Campion is a fantastic choice for gardens looking for low-maintenance colour and wildlife appeal. Whether planted in borders, rockeries, or containers, it offers a cheerful and hardy addition to the landscape.

 

RHS Seed Scheme Range