Red Campion
silene baccifera
Also known as: ["Bladder Campion","Red Catchfly"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant with pinkish-red flowers and distinctive bladder-like calyxes.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Silene |
| Botanical Name: | Silene baccifera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- 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.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; major shaping every 2–3 years.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; adjust placement based on season.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid sudden light changes.
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 moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots drain well.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent indoor temps.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can be challenging due to dormancy.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; trim selectively to maintain shape; remove spent flowers.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form; shape as needed for aesthetics.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape evenly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; trim rootbound roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even saturation without pooling.
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; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing in sudden temperature shifts.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots; avoid drafts; reduce watering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or bud drop in excessive heat; reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening; ensure good airflow.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly susceptible to the toxic effects of Silene baccifera due to their sensitive metabolic systems. The plant's toxins can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological disturbances, potentially leading to life-threatening conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Silene baccifera can lead to severe toxicosis due to the plant's alkaloid content. These compounds disrupt normal metabolic functions, causing gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms that may require veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSilene baccifera contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological disturbances upon ingestion. The plant's alkaloids and other secondary metabolites interfere with normal cellular processes, leading to systemic effects such as gastrointestinal distress, neurological impairment, and cardiovascular issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Silene baccifera toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the common uses of Red Campion?
A: It is primarily grown for ornamental purposes and attracts wildlife.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Silene baccifera?
A: It requires moderate care and maintenance, suitable for intermediate gardeners.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
