About
Silene acaulis var. exscapa is a compact variety of the moss campion forming very tight cushion mats of tiny, narrow, dark-green leaves studded with virtually stemless, rose-pink flowers in late spring. A rewarding and ornamental alpine cushion plant for a sunny, well-drained rock garden or alpine trough.
About the genus
Silene, the campions and catchflies, are annuals, biennials and perennials producing two-lipped or notched petals in white, pink or red flowers, often with an inflated or sticky calyx. Excellent plants for a sunny, well-drained border, rock garden or wildflower meadow.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained, light, neutral to slightly acid soil in full sun
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by division, or by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn or spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to rust diseases