The Maltese Cross is a robust and remarkable perennial, recognized for its vibrant bright red flowers and upright, vigorous habit. Ideal for low-maintenance gardens, it can reach up to 90 cm in height and produces long-lasting flowers, perfect for cutting. Once established, it readily self-seeds and adapts to various conditions, including dry soils. Highly attractive to pollinators, it draws in bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Where to grow Maltese Cross?
It thrives in zones 3 to 9. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, but also tolerates partial shade. It is perfectly suited for country-style gardens, perennial borders, and wildflower meadows.

History and traditional uses
Native to Eastern Europe and parts of Asia, Maltese Cross (also known as Jerusalem Cross or "Burning Love") has long been cultivated for its ornamental value. It holds a prominent place in traditional gardens as well as modern pollinator-friendly landscapes, thanks to its vibrant bloom and great hardiness.

Canadian Zone Information

• Zones 8–9: Direct sow in fall or early spring.

• Zones 5–7: Start indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost or direct sow after frosts.

• Zones 3–4: Start indoors then transplant once all risk of frost has passed.

How to grow and harvest Maltese Cross

• Sowing: Sow seeds 3 mm (1/8 inch) deep directly in the ground or in trays; space plants 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches) apart.

• Watering: Keep soil moist during establishment; tolerates drought well once mature.

• Maintenance: Deadhead spent flowers to prolong the blooming period.

• Harvest: Cut stems early in the morning for use as cut flowers; remove lower leaves before placing in water.

Tips for Seed Saving

• Allow to mature: Let seed heads dry completely on the plant.

• Harvest: Cut dry heads then shake or rub to release seeds.

• Drying and cleaning: Spread seeds for complete drying and remove plant debris.

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, in a labeled paper envelope or airtight container. Seeds remain viable for 3 to 4 years.

Certified Organic by
Islands Organics Producers Association (Certificate #1962)**