Europe
Lychnis coronaria (synonymous with Silene coronaria), commonly known as rose campion, is a short lived perennial forb. As an ornamental flower, it is generally grown as a biennial or annual and it has been used in medicine for its therapeutic benefit for bronchial asthma, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is native to the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Central Asia and has become naturalized in the Czech Republic, Portugal, US, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Japan, Chile, Australia, Norway, Sweden, Austria, and Estonia. In the Czech Republic, Lychnis coronaria was previously classified as non-invasive; however, more recent research suggests Lychnis coronaria has high invasive potential due to it's high germination rate, rapid growth, and observed localized spreading. When planted in perennial flower beds in the Czech Republic, Lychnis coronaria was found to dominate over other species and spread to neighboring flower beds. Lychnis coronaria can produce copious amounts of viable seeds and germination rates were found to be exceptionally high (99%-100%). Reproduction of this plant occurs through seed production, but asexual propagation via stem or leaf cuttings is also used in horticulture practices. The seeds are capable of being dispersed by attaching to animal fur or water, but there is a lack of evidence to suggest the propagules are dispersed long distances by wind, birds, or by humans. There is a lack of evidence that indicates Lychnis coronaria is invasive anywhere else in the world besides the Czech Republic at this time. In addition, there are many gaps in knowledge regarding Lychnis coronaria, hence, the overall low confidence level (54%) for this evaluation. More research is needed to evaluate the length of seed production, vectors of seed dispersal, effects on fire regimes and native plant communities, and invasive potential in countries where it has become naturalized. Based on the the evidence provided, the total PRE Score for Lychnis coronaria is 15, which indicates a moderate potential risk.