Overview
Silene firma is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Silene, part of the Caryophyllaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Silene firma grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildflower meadow, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.
About
Silene firma is a herbaceous perennial cultivar of the Silene genus, which includes annuals, biennials, and both herbaceous and evergreen perennials with opposite, toothless leaves. This clump-forming plant has deciduous foliage and thrives in full sun, ideally in a south-facing, exposed position. It prefers well-drained, neutral loam soil and is hardy to UK zone H6. Silene firma is suitable for cottage and informal gardens, wildflower meadows, wildlife gardens, and flower borders, offering interest during the summer and autumn seasons.
About the genus
Silene is a genus of flowering plants in the family Caryophyllaceae. Containing between 500 and 900 species, it is the largest genus in the family. Common names include campion and catchfly.
Wikipedia contributors, "Silene", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Silene
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Silene
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Silene firma size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Silene firma
- Propagation
- Seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Silene firma?
Silene firma prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.
What soil does Silene firma need?
Silene firma grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Silene firma hardy in the UK?
Silene firma has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Silene firma?
Seed.
More in the Silene genus
- Lychnis chalcedonica (Hessenhof Form)Maltese Cross
- Lychnis coronaria 'Alba'Rose Campion
- Silene fimbriatafringed-flowered campion
- Silene aomorensis