Ye Ole Rose Campion
This ancient wildflower, also known as Bloody William, Our Lady’s Rose, and a host of other names was living in our yard when we moved into the cabin. I didn’t know what it was at first because it looked like a grayish-silver, succulent-like ground cover. But, then summer came around and it shot stems 2+ feet in the air and busted out deep pink flowers. I was an instant fan. I had to get some more of them from my neighbor down the hill.
Rose Campion at the edge of my yard
Rose Campion’s not a California native, but apparently it has been cultivated since the 1300’s. The flower most likely made its way here by boat from Southern Europe in the 1700 or 1800s. It’s very easy to grow as it reseeds itself, is heat & drought-tolerant, takes sun or part shade, and requires little to no maintenance. If you live in Zones 3-9, and like the wild-garden look, see if you can get your hands on some plants or heirloom seeds.
