About
A low-growing, mat-forming, deciduous alpine perennial with hairy green-grey leaves and deeply-cut snow white flowers appearing in the 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 typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery
HabitMatforming
FoliageDeciduous
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 toW North America
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, very well-drained, acid soil in full sun. Suitable for rock garden, scree bed or alpine house. Resents winter wet
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by softwood cuttings in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, glasshouse red spider mite and glasshouse whitefly under glass
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free