About

A semi-evergreen perennial to 20cm tall forming a mat of grey-green, lance-shaped, fleshy leaves to 2cm long. Pompom-like, double white flowers are borne above the foliage on branched stems 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
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7

Plant details

Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Rock garden, Coastal, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

CultivationGrow in a well-drained soil in a sunny position. Ideal for rock gardens, scree beds, gravel gardens, walls and alpine troughs
PruningDeadhead after flowering
PropagationDivide congested mats in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free