Silene latifolia (White Campion)
Silene latifolia (White Campion) is an upright, semi-evergreen biennial or short-lived perennial with elliptic leaves and clusters of white flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), slightly scented in the evening. Blooming from late spring to late summer, each blossom is adorned with 5 spreading petals partially cleft and an inflated, prominently veined, pale green calyx.
Silene latifolia (White Campion) is an upright, semi-evergreen biennial or short-lived perennial with elliptic leaves and clusters of white flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), slightly scented in the evening. Blooming from late spring to late summer, each blossom is adorned with 5 spreading petals partially cleft and an inflated, prominently veined, pale green calyx. Rich in pollen, they attract butterflies and other pollinating insects. This wildflower spreads by reseeding itself. Lovely when illuminated by a night light, White Campion is a great addition to mixed borders.
- Grows up to 2 ft. tall (60 cm) and 1-2 ft. wide (30-60 cm).
- Thrives in full sun or light shade in moderately fertile, well-drained soils. Excellent drainage is essential and sandy or gravelly soils are favored by this plant. Resents winter wet.
- Virtually pest free. Keep an eye out for powdery mildew.
- Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe or division of offsets when dormant.
- Native to Europe.
- Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
- Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 5 – 9 |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Perennials |
| Plant Family | Silene – Campions |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late) |
| Height | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
| Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
| Spacing | 18″ – 24″ (45cm – 60cm) |
| Water Needs | Low, Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Sand |
| Soil pH | Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy, Semi-Evergreen |
| Native Plants | United Kingdom |
| Garden Uses | Beds and Borders |
| Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |