About

A tiny evergreen alpine reaching 10cm. It forms a tight mound of tiny green leaves with stemless pink flowers across its surface, in summer.

About the genus

Silene can be annuals, biennials or herbaceous or evergreen perennials, with opposite, untoothed leaves and solitary or clustered flowers with 5, usually notched petals

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesRock garden, Patio and container plants

Care notes

CultivationGrow in any well-drained but moisture-retentive soil in good light
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Powdery mildews