Silene dioica (Red Campion)
Pretty and low-maintenance, Silene dioica (Red Campion) is a semi-evergreen perennial forming bold clumps of spoon shaped, downy leaves from which emerge tall, rich green stems bearing delicate pink flowers. Blooming profusely from late spring to early summer, then sporadically until fall, each flower, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), features five deeply notched petals.
Pretty and low-maintenance, Silene dioica (Red Campion) is a semi-evergreen perennial forming bold clumps of spoon shaped, downy leaves from which emerge tall, rich green stems bearing delicate pink flowers. Blooming profusely from late spring to early summer, then sporadically until fall, each flower, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), features five deeply notched petals. Rich in pollen, they attract bees and butterflies. The female flowers, borne on separate plants, are followed by seed capsules that will open when ripe to disperse their content. This wildflower makes a good addition to a rockery and is a great addition to a moist wildflower meadow.
- Grows up to 2-3 ft. tall (60-90 cm) and 2 ft. across (60 cm).
- Pest and disease free and low maintenance, this eye-catching beauty is also drought tolerant (once established).
- Thrives in full sun to part shade in moderately fertile, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Excellent drainage is essential and sandy or gravelly soils are favored by this plant. Best in partly sunny sites with afternoon shade. Plants are best left undisturbed once established.
- Great for beds and borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, prairies and meadows.
- Propagate by seed. Cut back stems after flowering to encourage a second flush.
- Native to Europe.
Requirements
Hardiness | 5 – 8 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Perennials |
Plant Family | Silene – Campions |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall |
Height | 2' – 3' (60cm – 90cm) |
Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
Spacing | 24″ (60cm) |
Water Needs | Low |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Semi-Evergreen |
Native Plants | United Kingdom |
Tolerance | Drought, Dry Soil, Rocky Soil |
Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders |
Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |