Brilliant campion
Lychnis fulgens
Family: Caryophyllaceae
What it is like
Lychnis fulgens is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.6
Where it is found
Meadows and shrub thickets. Woodlands on low hills, wet shady scrub meadows.
E. Asia - Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Siberia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Young plant - cooked.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating: 1
Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, the root of several members of this genus contains saponins, a soap substitute used for washing clothes, hair etc. It is extracted by boiling the roots in water. Do not overboil the roots because this will break down the saponins.
Soap: Plants used directly as a soap substitute.
How it is grown
An easily grown plant, succeeding in a good garden soil and a warm sheltered position.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. The seed can also be sown in situ in spring or early autumn though this requires more seed. Division in spring or autumn. Very easy, larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 5-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist