How to Grow Maltese Cross
Silene chalcedonica
Maltese cross is a fully hardy herbaceous perennial bearing dense rounded clusters of brilliant scarlet, cross-shaped flowers from June to August. It thrives in full sun or light shade in any moist, well-drained soil — tolerant of clay and average garden conditions unlike many border perennials. Plant in spring or autumn, spacing 35cm apart in groups for maximum colour impact. Deadhead promptly after the first flush to encourage a second round of flowers. Plants are short-lived (3-4 years) but easily divided in spring or autumn to maintain vigour. Staking may be needed in exposed positions.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Light feeding in spring with a balanced fertiliser or compost mulch. Avoid over-feeding which produces lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
Watch For
- Aphids on flower stems
- Slugs on young spring growth
- Short-lived — may decline after 3-4 years
Companions
Delphiniums, Nepeta, Geranium, Salvia
Track your Maltese Cross care schedule — pruning, feeding, and seasonal tasks
Start planning freeCare Requirements
☀️ Light
Full sun to light shade
Prefers full sun for best flowering but tolerates light shade. At least 5-6 hours of direct sun produces the strongest stems and most vivid flower colour.
💧 Watering
Moist but not waterlogged
Prefers consistently moist soil during the growing season. Water during prolonged dry spells, especially in the first year. Tolerates average conditions once established but not drought-stressed for long periods.
🌱 Fertilizing
Light spring feed
Apply a balanced fertiliser or compost mulch in early spring. Avoid over-feeding which produces rank foliage and weak stems that need staking.
✂️ Pruning
Deadhead after flowering, cut back in late winter
Deadhead spent flower clusters promptly to encourage a second flush. Cut all stems to ground level in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Growing Tips
Deadhead for a second flush
Remove spent flower heads promptly once the first flush fades — this often encourages a second, lighter round of blooms in late summer.
Divide every 3-4 years
Maltese cross is short-lived but easily rejuvenated. Lift and divide clumps in spring or autumn, replanting the healthiest outer sections.
Stake in exposed sites
Stems reach 90cm and can flop in windy positions. Use grow-through supports in spring or plant among sturdier neighbours for natural support.
Tolerates most soils
Unlike many perennials, maltese cross thrives in average garden soil including clay, as long as it does not waterlog. No special soil amendments needed.
Log Maltese Cross in your garden — track growth, care, and harvests year after year
Start planning free