Silene
( sye - LEEN - ee )
Silene Species and Varietals
The best growing zones for Silene vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Silene acaulis (Cushion Pink, Moss Campion) This species does well in zones A1-A3, 1-11, 14-16 and 18-21, and is a perennial. It is native to the Arctic regions as well as the mountains of North America and Eurasia. It forms a small, mossy mat 2 inches tall and 8 inches wide, and has green leaves. Flowers are reddish purple and bloom in early springtime. Great for planting in a gravelly but moist spot in the garden. This species needs regular water for best performance. |
Silene californica (California Indian Pink) This perennial species grows well in zones 3, 6-9, and 14-24 and is native to - you guessed it - California! It has a loose branching structure and reaches a foot tall and just as wide. Flowers are red and bloom in springtime. Leaves are greyish green and hairy. Needs excellent drainage; somewhat drought tolerant. |
Silene coeli-rosa (Lychnis coeli-rasa, Agrostemma coeli-rosa) (Viscaria) This species of Silene is native to the Mediterranean and grows in all zones as an annual. It reaches a foot tall and half as wide, and has grey-green foliage and forms loose clusters of flowers. Bloom time depends on planting time (if sown in early spring, they will bloom in summer, and if sown in fall, they will bloom in winter and spring). Flowers come in blue, lavender, pink, or white and often have contrasting-colored eyes. This species makes a great cut flower, and needs regular water for best performance. |
Silene schafta (Moss Campion) This species of Silene is a perennial and grows best in zones 2-9, 14-16 and 18-21. It is native to western Asia and forms a small tuft of foliage 6-12 inches tall and a foot wide. Leaves are bright green and flowers are rose-purple and bloom from late summer through fall. This species needs moderate water. |
Silene uniflora (Silene vulgaris maritima) (Sea Campion) This perennial species of Silene grows well in zones 1-9 and 14-24, and is native to the northwestern coastal regions of Europe. It forms a grey-green cushion 6 inches tall and 8 inches wide, Summertime flowers are white, almost completely encased in a balloon-like calyx. Needs moderate water. |
Caring for Silene
Silene prefers to be planted in well-draining soil.
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 604, Silene
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