Brilliant campion (Lychnis fulgens)

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun
Frost limit: −23.3 °C

Cultivation

An easily grown plant, succeeding in a good garden soil and a warm sheltered position.

Propagation

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.

Edible uses

Young plant - cooked.

Material uses

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[K]. It is extracted by boiling the roots in water. Do not overboil the roots because this will break down the saponins[K].

Habitat

Meadows and shrub thickets.

Native range

E. Asia - Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Siberia.