Overview

Viscaria vulgaris 'Splendens Plena' is a perennial in the genus Viscaria, part of the Caryophyllaceae family. Viscaria vulgaris 'Splendens Plena' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders and rock gardens. It is native to Europe.

About

Viscaria vulgaris 'Splendens Plena' is a perennial notable for its fully double flower heads. It suits full sun or partial shade on a well-drained, moist soil with neutral to alkaline pH and prefers a sheltered spot. Flowering runs June to August. It is used mainly in borders and rock gardens.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Viscaria vulgaris

About the genus

Viscaria is a genus of flowering plants in the family Caryophyllaceae, native to Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Europe, Kazakhstan, and western Siberia. Molecular studies attempting to resolve relationships in the tribe Sileneae have found that Viscaria is closely genetically related to the genus Atocion, but is quite distinct from it morphologically.

Wikipedia contributors, "Viscaria", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Viscaria

In the garden

Belonging to the Caryophyllaceae and native to Europe, Viscaria vulgaris 'Splendens Plena' is the double-flowered form of its species and is grown for a concentrated summer display. Its flowering period is June to August, during which the double blooms create a distinct block of colour in the planting. Plant it in full sun or partial shade where soil drains freely but retains some moisture; neutral to alkaline soils suit it best. Give a sheltered position to reduce wind damage to the stems, and note the rating H5 (hardy) — hardy through typical UK winters without special protection in most regions. Keep soil moist rather than waterlogged; excellent drainage prevents root problems while a steady moisture level supports flowering. Use 'Splendens Plena' on the front of a mixed border or tucked into pockets of a gravel or rock garden so its stems are not swamped by taller neighbours. Its compact, double blooms make it useful for close-up inspection and for planting schemes where a repeat block of summer colour is required. Position plants with space around each crown so the flowering stems remain visible throughout June to August.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Viscaria

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained

Soil pH

neutral, alkaline

Soil moisture

moist

Exposure

sheltered

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Viscaria vulgaris 'Splendens Plena' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Suggested uses

borders, rock gardens

Native to

Europe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Viscaria vulgaris 'Splendens Plena'

Cultivation

Prefers well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Avoid waterlogged conditions.

Pruning

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming.

Propagation

Seed, division

Frequently asked questions