Lychnis flos-jovis (flower-of-Jove) — perennial

Overview

Lychnis flos-jovis is a perennial in the genus Lychnis, part of the Caryophyllaceae family. It typically grows around 0.2–0.6 metres tall. Lychnis flos-jovis grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include rock gardens, alpine gardens and borders. It is native to central Alps.

About

Lychnis flos-jovis is a perennial in the Caryophyllaceae native to the central Alps, notable for its alpine provenance. It reaches about 0.2–0.6 metres in height and suits well-drained sites with moderate moisture. Plant where it receives full sun or partial shade. It is fully hardy in the UK (H7) and fits rock and alpine garden situations as well as borders.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Silene flos-jovis

About the genus

Silene is a genus of flowering plants in the family Caryophyllaceae. Containing between 500 and 900 species, it is the largest genus in the family.

In the garden

Lychnis flos-jovis is an alpine perennial from the central Alps belonging to the Caryophyllaceae. Its compact height of 0.2–0.6 metres makes it a natural choice where lower-growing alpine or border plants are required; its origin suits positions that mimic mountain drainage and light conditions. Give Lychnis flos-jovis a sunny or partially shaded spot in well-drained soil and avoid waterlogged conditions; moderate soil moisture is preferred rather than persistently wet ground. In UK terms H7 denotes that it is fully hardy and will tolerate winter conditions found across the garden climate range, so little winter protection is needed when planted in an appropriate site. Use it at the front of mixed borders, tucked into rock gardens or arranged in alpine beds where good drainage can be ensured. Allow space so neighbouring taller plants do not shade it out through the season, and consider raised or gritty pockets in heavier soils to reproduce the well-drained conditions it prefers.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Lychnis

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained
Soil moisture: moderate
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Lychnis flos-jovis size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Height: 0.2–0.6 metres
Suggested uses: rock gardens, alpine gardens, borders
Native to: central Alps

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lychnis flos-jovis

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Suitable for rock gardens and alpine conditions.
Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming.
Propagation: Seed, division