White Campion

silene latifolia

Also known as: ["White Cockle","White Campion","White Cockle Weed"]

Family: Caryophyllaceae Genus: Silene Category: Flowers

Overview

A herbaceous flowering plant native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, known for its white, night-blooming flowers and distinctive lobed leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Genus: Silene
Botanical Name: Silene latifolia

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy conditions.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun during peak hours.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-drained, fertile loam with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; maintain consistent moisture levels.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent humidity; protect from drafts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for consistent results.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also use a peat-based medium.

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator, misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim back leggy stems; remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Clean tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape plant; remove spent blooms; disinfect tools after use.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenating soil and root system.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or leaf drop in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests and diseases.

Solution: Provide protection from frost; move potted plants indoors; use mulch to insulate roots.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; flowering may be reduced.

Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide shade during peak heat; improve air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Silene latifolia may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant health.

Wilting in Silene latifolia is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root damage, which can impair nutrient uptake and lead to plant decline.

Leaf spots on Silene latifolia are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Silene latifolia due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to tissue decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may suffer from mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume the roots or seeds of Silene latifolia. The saponins in the plant can lead to mild digestive upset.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the roots and seeds of this plant to mitigate potential mild toxicity.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest the roots or seeds of Silene latifolia due to the presence of saponins. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the roots and seeds of this plant to avoid mild digestive issues.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Silene latifolia contains saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consuming any parts of the plant, especially roots and seeds, to prevent mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Silene latifolia toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data to confirm toxicity to pets.

Q: Does Silene latifolia require full sun?

A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, making it adaptable to various light conditions.

Q: Does Silene latifolia attract pollinators?

A: Yes, its fragrant night-blooming flowers attract moths, bees, and other pollinators.

Quick Reference
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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