Silene banksia, commonly known as Chinese lychnis or jian chun luo, is a perennial herb that is native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and rocky slopes in southeastern Siberia, most of China, Korea, and Japan. It has been introduced to Mongolia and Japan. The plant typically grows to a height of 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) and features lance-shaped leaves. The flowers are striking, with deeply divided petals that are usually bright pink or magenta, blooming in late spring to early summer. The flowers are quite showy and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Chinese lychnis is valued for its vibrant flowers and is often used in ornamental gardens, borders, and as a ground cover. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soil, although it can tolerate a range of soil types. This plant is relatively low maintenance and can be a good choice for gardeners looking for long-lasting blooms. While it is not known for any significant problems, it can occasionally suffer from rust or mildew in humid conditions. It is also deer-resistant, making it suitable for areas with high deer populations.CC BY-SA 4.0