Flower Library
Maltese Cross
Silene chalcedonica · Caryophyllaceae (Nelkengewächse)
Maltese Cross is one of the most expressive summer perennials we offer as a cut flower: dense, plate-shaped umbels of countless tiny, cross-shaped blooms in a scarlet that makes any bouquet glow. In season we source it fresh from the Veiling Rhein-Maas, so it reaches you with its full vase life intact. A classic for anyone who loves bold colour and character.
- Season
- June – July – August
- Vase life
- 7–12 days
- Latin name
- Silene chalcedonica
- Colors
- Scarlet red, Bright red, Orange-red, Salmon pink, White
Botanically, Maltese Cross is now called Silene chalcedonica, though many still know it under its older name Lychnis chalcedonica. It belongs to the pink family and produces its characteristic flat flower umbels on sturdy, upright stems 70 to 100 centimetres tall. Each individual bloom shows five deeply notched petals that together form a tiny cross, hence the many cross-related nicknames.
Besides the typical scarlet there are several interesting cultivars: Alba flowers pure white, Rosea in soft salmon pink, and the double form Plena produces especially dense, voluminous umbels. For floristry the luminous red of the wild form is unbeatable, since no other summer flower delivers this pure, almost signal-like tone in such density.
In floral design we use Maltese Cross as a powerful colour accent in summer bouquets, in cottage-garden and meadow arrangements, or as a fiery component in monochrome red designs. The compact umbels set clear focal points and pair wonderfully with loose, airy partners that soften the intense block of colour.
Quality in this flower shows in firm, unbroken stems and umbels that are only just beginning to open, with closed buds still around the edge. That way the blooms open gradually in the vase and the display lasts noticeably longer. Look for rich, unbleached foliage and a clean cut at the stem end, and freshness is beyond doubt.
Care
- 01Cut stems at an angle and place immediately in clean, lukewarm water.
- 02Remove the lower leaves so nothing rots in the water and no bacteria build up.
- 03Use flower food and change the water every two to three days.
- 04Keep cool and out of direct sun, away from heaters, fruit and draughts.
- 05Pick spent individual florets from the umbel to keep the bouquet looking fresh longer.
- 06The sturdy stems hold well but need stable support in tall vases.
Frequently asked
- How long does Maltese Cross last in the vase?
- With fresh water daily, a clean vase and a cool spot it usually lasts seven to twelve days. As the umbels open gradually, the bouquet stays attractive for a long time, and our A1 stems from the Veiling typically make full use of that range.
- Is Maltese Cross toxic to cats, dogs or children?
- Like many members of the pink family, Maltese Cross contains saponins that can cause gastrointestinal irritation with vomiting or diarrhoea if eaten. It is considered only mildly toxic, but stems and blooms should be kept out of reach of cats, dogs and small children and never eaten.
- When is Maltese Cross in season as a cut flower?
- The main season is high summer from June to August, when it is available fresh and at its best quality. Outside these months it is hard to source as a cut flower and rarely in A1 quality.
- What does Maltese Cross mean, and does it suit a romantic message?
- Its very name makes it an expressive messenger of passionate affection and glowing love. In a red summer bouquet it is a characterful alternative or addition to the classic rose when strong feelings are involved.