So totally easy to grow, Lychnis coronaria is the kind of hardy, old-timey favorite that makes even busy gardeners look wildly successful. Soft, furry, silvery foliage forms a beautiful low mound, while upright branching stems rise above it, carrying dazzling 1.5" blooms in rich fuchsia from late spring through summer.

Also known as Rose Campion, this tough perennial is a fabulous choice for cottage gardens, dry borders, sunny slopes, containers, and low-maintenance plantings where bold color and pretty foliage are both welcome. The silver leaves are a perfect foil for the vivid flowers, creating a glowing contrast that looks especially good with lavender, yarrow, salvias, ornamental grasses, white blooms, and other dry-garden companions.

Plant Lychnis coronaria in full sun to dry shade with well-drained soil. It tolerates poor soil, clay-ish soil, heat, and dry conditions, and deer tend to leave it alone. Growing about 30" tall and wide, it attracts butterflies and may self-sow where happy. Cut back to about 3" tall in fall for a fresh start next season.