Campion, catchfly

Plant type: Herbaceous perennial
Botanical name: Lychnis sp.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 4 to 8

Valued for its brilliantly colored blooms against striking silver, pubescent foliage. Bloom colors range from rose pink to white to red. Blooms in late spring to early summer. Cut back the spent blooms and enjoy the woolly, silver leaves. Its foliage resembles lamb's ear (Stachys byzantina). Plant size ranges from 24 to 36 inches tall and 18 inches wide.

How to use it: In masses, as a specimen plant and in containers. Use in a mixed perennial border or cottage garden.

Culture: Prefers a moist, well-drained site; tolerates some poor soils. Plant in full sun or partial shade. Afternoon shade is best. Propagated through seed, stem cuttings or division. Self sows. No serious pest or disease problems, but may have problems with rust, root rot, leaf spot or white fly.

Special notes: Campion is a short-lived perennial and is often better grown as an annual or biennial. Old-fashioned flower.

Selected cultivars and species