Silene uniflora (Sea Campion)

A common sight on the seacoasts of Western Europe, Silene uniflora (Sea Campion) is a low-growing, semi-evergreen perennial forming a mat of smooth, blue-green, waxy leaves which are lanceolate, stalkless and borne in opposite pairs. Blooming for 6-8 weeks in late spring to early summer, masses of white flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), are borne singly or in small clusters and rise on short, erect stems above the foliage. Each blossom is adorned with five bi-lobed petals and an inflated green-tinged fused calyx. Rich in pollen, they attract butterflies and other pollinating insects. This perennial wildflower is short-lived but self-seeds. Undemanding, Sea Campion makes an ideal rock garden specimen and looks great dripping out of mixed containers. Excellent as a groundcover in cottage gardens or for naturalizing in hot dry locations.

• Grows up to 6 in. tall (15 cm) and 8 in. wide (20 cm).
• Pest and disease free and low maintenance, this eye-catching beauty is also drought tolerant (once established).
• Thrives in full sun in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Excellent drainage is essential.
• Easily propagated from seed and may self-seed in sunny sites.
• Native to coastal regions of Western and Northern Europe.