Maltese Cross (Gal)

Description

Maltese Cross came to America early on. Thomas Jefferson had some in one of the flower beds at Monticello. It’s thought to have been introduced to European gardens by Louis IX on his return from the Holy Land, where it was already popular. It became known also as the Jerusalem Cross, Campion of Constantinople, Nonesuch, Flower of Bristow, Knight’s Cross, and Scarlet Lightning. Maltese Cross is one of those rare perennials who not only enjoy cold climates but has a natural affinity for alkaline clay soils. Along with its height, its round-shaped red clusters bloom on stem tips of lanky, bright-green foliage, a fierce presence in the garden. It blooms in June, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.