Ragged robin (Lychnis flos-cuculi) is a delicate and distinctive perennial wildflower known for its finely divided pink petals that bring soft colour and texture to wetland edges, damp meadows, and naturalistic garden planting schemes.
Flowering from late spring into early summer, these blooms are a magnet for pollinators and invertebrates, while their seeds offer a valuable food source for birds and small mammals. Ragged Robin seeds are a key feature in many of our wildflower mixtures, particularly those designed for damp soil conditions and pollinator-friendly planting.
If you’re thinking of adding ragged robin to your garden, here’s what you need to know:
How many grams of ragged robin seeds should I buy?
Our 1g seed packets contain approximately 5000 ragged robin seeds, making them ideal for small-scale sowing in the garden.
When should I sow ragged robin seeds?
Ragged robin seeds are best sown directly onto moist soil in autumn or early spring. You can also start them indoors in seedling trays, then plant them out after the last frost when the soil has warmed up. For best results, choose a naturally damp area, such as a pond margin or waterlogged meadow.
How tall does ragged robin grow?
Ragged robin typically reaches a height of 30–90 cm depending on growing conditions and soil moisture levels. In wetter areas, it tends to grow taller and bushier.
Is ragged robin good for wildlife?
Yes! Ragged robin’s frilly, open blooms are rich in nectar and provide essential food for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. They are especially attractive to long-tongued bees and moths, which thrive on its accessible nectar sources. The seed heads also offer food for small birds once the flowers fade.
Is ragged robin edible?
Ragged Robin is not considered edible.
When does ragged robin flower?
Ragged robin usually blooms from late May to July. In ideal conditions, particularly in consistently moist soil, you may see flowers extending into August.
Is ragged robin winter hardy?
Yes, ragged robin is a hardy perennial which once established is capable of withstanding frosty conditions.
Does ragged robin come back every year?
As a perennial, ragged robin returns each year once established. It also readily self-seeds in suitable conditions, allowing new plants to emerge naturally around the original planting area.
What growing conditions does ragged robin prefer?
Ragged robin thrives in moist to wet soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is ideal for pond edges, bog gardens, or naturally damp meadows. While it can tolerate drier soils, the plant performs best in consistently moist environments.
Can I cut ragged robin for bouquets?
Yes, Ragged Robin’s airy, delicate flowers make beautiful additions to informal wildflower arrangements or cottage garden bouquets.
Is ragged robin invasive?
Ragged Robin is not considered invasive but can self-seed freely in the right conditions, particularly in damp soils. If you want to control its spread, remove the seed heads after flowering before they have a chance to disperse naturally.
Flowers: May to July
Sow: September to October for strong early summer blooms the following year, or in early spring for flowering later in the season
Lifecycle: Perennial, returning year after year once established
Best for: Damp meadows, pond edges, and wetter soils in full sun to partial shade
Also known as: Cuckoo Flower, Meadow Pink
