About

Silene dioica (species entry) is a short-lived, clump-forming perennial producing downy, lance-shaped to oval, bright-green leaves and masses of deep-pink to red, five-petalled flowers on branching stems from spring to late summer. Male and female flowers are borne on separate plants; seed capsules on female plants have toothed edges as they ripen. A rewarding and cheerful native wildflower for a semi-shaded border or woodland edge.

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

SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope

Care notes

CultivationOccurs naturally on well-drained, moderately fertile soils. Dislikes waterlogging so is rarely found on heavy clay. A flower of hedgerows and semi-shaded places
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free