Ragged Robin
silene flos-cuculi
Also known as: ["Lychnis flos-cuculi","Ragged Lady"]
Overview
A delicate herbaceous perennial with distinctive pink, deeply lobed flowers, native to wetlands and damp meadows.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage","damp soil tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Silene |
| Botanical Name: | Silene flos-cuculi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade, or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°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, fertile soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; lightly prune throughout the growing season as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun); protect from harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; provide shade during peak heat; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); tolerates cooler nights but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; stop in fall/winter; use balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–70°F).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back straggly stems to a healthy bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Sharp pruners or scissors, clean gloves.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged growth; sterilize tools; prune after flowering; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
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.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a warm, sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume parts of Silene flos-cuculi. The saponins in the plant can irritate the digestive tract, leading to mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Silene flos-cuculi can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. Symptoms are typically temporary and resolve without long-term effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSilene flos-cuculi contains saponins and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be unpleasant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Ragged Robin attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: What type of soil does Ragged Robin prefer?
A: It thrives in damp, waterlogged soils, often found in wetlands or near ponds.
Q: Is Ragged Robin toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to confirm toxicity to pets; it is best to keep pets away from unknown plants.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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