Lychnis coronaria Alba

Lychnis coronaria 'Alba', commonly known as white rose campion, is a perennial plant with a bushy habit. It is entirely covered in soft hair and silvery-grey semi-evergreen foliage. It produces an abundance of small round white flowers throughout summer. Used to rocky terrain and difficult conditions, and easily self-seeding, this plant is the queen of cottage gardens.

Lychnis coronaria 'Alba' is a horticultural variety of L. coronaria, originating from southern Europe and western Asia. It is a tomentose-white perennial plant with a woody stump, forming rosettes at the base. Sturdy stems rise from the foliage, reaching 40 to 80cm (16 to 32in). They are either single or dichotomously branched. Flowering occurs from June to September, in the form of clusters of small round white flowers with long peduncles. Its leaves are oval-oblong, silvery-grey, semi-evergreen, and tomentose.

Persistent down to -15°C (5°F) (Zone 4 to 8), Lychnis coronaria 'Alba' thrives in sunny or semi-shaded locations. This plant is naturally found in uncultivated and rocky soils. Plant it in porous, dry to moist but well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil, from February to April in cool areas and from September to November in milder regions. In regions with harsh winters, it can be potted in autumn to protect it from frost. It tolerates drought well, and requires little care and watering. Prune it after flowering to remove dry parts, and to promote new growth and a second flowering. Note that seedlings may not necessarily produce white flowers.

Plant white rose campion in groups, as a single plant may appear somewhat awkward. A beautiful display can be achieved with the wild form of Lychnis coronaria: the combination of vibrant magenta pink flowers, pure white flowers, and silvery velvet of the foliage of both plants will be spectacular. Lychnis elegantly accompanies old or English roses and aromatic plants such as common sage, thyme, lavender, and rosemary, which require the same growing conditions.