About
This upright biennial or short-lived perennial with elliptic leaves and clusters of white flowers to 3cm across, with a slight scent in the evening, 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, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow, Cottage and informal garden
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun or light shade. Resents winter wet
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe or division of offsets when dormant
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a smut and powdery mildews