About
Silene compacta is a compact, cushion-forming campion producing the characteristic notched flowers and leafy, sticky stems of the genus in spring and summer. A rewarding specialist 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
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Native toNorthern Hemisphere
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun or light shade. Resents winter wet
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or from basal stem cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free