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Maltese Cross 'Dawn Sky'
Seed Packet

Maltese Cross 'Dawn Sky'

Lychnis chalcedonica var. carnea
Apricot-pink flower heads composed of clusters of dainty florets bloom in early to mid-summer, keeping company with lavender-blue campanulas, larkspurs, and scarlet maltese cross. A rare heirloom, given old names such as Nonesuch and Mock Sweet William, it is a hardy garden survivor. Could this flower be the 'pale red' variation of the traditional bright scarlet maltese cross mentioned in Curtis's Botanical Magazine in 1794?
SKU #S1255
$4.00
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Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
310
Lifecycle
Perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
4,
5,
6,
7,
8
Mature Size
1.5-2.5' h x 1' w
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Soil
Regular, well-drained
Season
Spring to summer
Color
Apricot pink
Features
Great Cut Flower
Deer Resistant
Heat or Drought Tolerant
Attracts Butterflies
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Surface sow and press in lightly; requires light to germinate.
Sprout Time:
7-21 days
Starting Indoors:
Sow 6–8 weeks before last frost and cover with humidity dome to retain moisture until germination occurs. Keep at 65-70°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow mid-spring to early summer. May bloom the first year if sown indoors.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
After last spring frost.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Heirloom Maltese cross has been in cultivation for centuries; the white and "flesh-colored' var. carnea was available as early as 1710 in England. A valuable, trouble-free perennial, its clustered blooms appear reliably every summer. Best in groups in cottage gardens and mixed borders where deer and rabbits avoid it and bees and butterflies are sure to visit. It is an excellent cut flower as well. Deadhead for extended bloom.
Final Spacing:
1-1.5'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
Somewhat drought tolerant once established. 1" of water per week initially, then water during dry spells.
Soil pH:
Mildly acidic to neutral
Fertilizer:
Mix about 2" of compost into the soil at time of planting, and top-dress every spring with about 1".
Diseases & Pests:
Mostly pest and disease free
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Cut when florets are 3/4 to fully open.