Lychnis viscaria Plena

Lychnis viscaria 'Plena', also known as Sticky Catchfly, is an easy-to-grow perennial plant of medium size, forming a wide clump of slightly sticky stems, on which you may sometimes find a few small insects trapped. It produces tightly packed clusters of double, frilly pompom flowers in intense and fresh pink, perched on thin stems during spring. It is a common sight in cottage gardens, old-fashioned gardens, and informal gardens, requiring only light and a moderately moist soil to thrive.

Lychnis viscaria belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. This plant originates from Europe and Asia Minor, where it grows on cliffs and rocky areas. 'Plena' is a more compact selection with a sparkling pink color. This plant forms a wide, semi-evergreen clump composed of a rosette of narrow, lanceolate leaves in a beautiful bronze-green shade, which are glossy and form a large cushion. Numerous bronze, hairy, and sticky flower stalks, particularly at the node, emerge from this clump, which reaches 45 cm (18in) in all directions. The flowering takes place in spring, in May-June. It is remarkably cheerful and vibrant. The tousled flowers, measuring 2 to 3 cm (1in) in diameter, are grouped in panicles with staggered cymes, tightly packed at the top of the flower stalks. Their color is vibrant, ranging from candy pink to tyrian pink, both fresh and intense.

Lychnis viscaria 'Plena' is an excellent perennial plant that has been used in gardens for a long time. It can be used in mass plantings, borders, or rock gardens. Combine it with valerians, giant rusty foxgloves, fragrant butterbur, damask nigella, and peach-leaved bellflowers. It is a perfect perennial for slightly wild areas, along with aromatic plants. It will enhance the romantic character of old-fashioned roses.

Lychnis viscaria is known to increase the disease resistance of plants planted alongside it. This plant contains molecules called brassinosteroids, whose growth-activating effect on other plants has been proven.