Catchfly (Lychnis × Arkwrightii ‘Orange Zwerg’ Orange Dwarf)

Catchfly

Features and Characteristics

Lychnis × arkwrightii is a hybrid catchfly whose parents are L. calcedonica and L. × haageana. It typically grows in an upright clump to 18” tall. It is commonly called catchfly or Arkwright’s campion.

Genus name comes from the classical name said to be derived from the Greek word lychnos meaning a lamp possibly referring to the ancient use of leaves of a woolly species for wicks.

ORANGE DWARF is a dwarf cultivar that grows to 12” tall and as wide, and features dark bronze foliage and orange-red flowers in summer. It is considered by some nurseries to be a shorter version of the similar L. ‘Vesuvius’. It features ovate to lance-shaped leaves (to 5” long) that are bronze green. Orange-red flowers (to 5” across) with notched petals bloom in cymes in early summer. Flowers are followed by interesting seed pods that mature to brown.

Care and Maintenance

Best grown in moderately fertile, well-drained soils with consistent and even moisture in full sun. Tolerates poorer soils with some dryness. Sharp soil drainage is essential. Although perennial, plants may be somewhat short-lived and are sometimes grown as annuals. Raised plantings and winter mulches may promote longer plant life. Plants may self-seed in the garden.

Catchfly (Lychnis × Arkwrightii ‘Orange Zwerg’ Orange Dwarf) Requirements

Hardiness zone	5 - 8
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for slugs and snails.

Uses

Rock gardens. Border fronts.

Catchfly (Lychnis × Arkwrightii ‘Orange Zwerg’ Orange Dwarf) Details

Common name	Catchfly
Botanical name	Lychnis × Arkwrightii 'Orange Zwerg' Orange Dwarf
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Caryophyllaceae
Hardiness zone	5 - 8
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Orange
Flowering period	June - August
Height	1 - 1.50 Feet
Width	0.75 To 1 Ft.