About
An erect herbaceous perennial to 1m in height, with oval leaves and small, bright vermilion flowers in compact, domed heads 10-12cm in width.
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, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toEuropean Russia
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist, fertile soil in sun or partial shade. May require support in windy situations
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering then cut down in the autumn
PropagationPropagate by seed in pots in a cold frame as soon as seed is ripe or in spring. Propagate by division or basal cuttings in early spring.
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and slugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free