Night-flowering Catchfly

silene noctiflora

Also known as: ["Evening Catchfly","Night-flowering Campion"]

Family: Caryophyllaceae Genus: Silene Category: Flowers

Overview

An annual plant known for its nocturnal blooming habit and delicate pink flowers.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

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":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • 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; can tolerate sandy soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very low
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season; major pruning after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
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 midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing in drafty areas.

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, sandy loam with moderate organic content

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

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; test soil pH periodically.

Temperature

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

Monitor temperature fluctuations; adjust watering based on heat; protect from drafts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use a balanced NPK ratio; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

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

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take an additional 4–6 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag or dome.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage branching; deadhead spent flowers to promote new blooms.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

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

Method

Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to support growth.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; 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.

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 feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold may lead to root damage.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a protective layer of mulch; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause wilting, flower drop, and reduced vigor; may lead to sunburn on leaves.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer label; dilute properly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Silene noctiflora may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pathogenic infections, which can impair photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Silene noctiflora is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root damage, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Silene noctiflora may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic capacity and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Silene noctiflora can be caused by fungal pathogens or excessive moisture, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Silene noctiflora is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce known toxins that would affect feline physiology.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally not considered toxic

As with any plant, ingestion in large amounts could cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but this species is not considered toxic.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Silene noctiflora does not pose a significant toxic risk to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally not considered toxic

Monitor pets if they consume large quantities of any plant material, but this species is not expected to cause harm.
Humans
Non-toxic

Silene noctiflora is not known to have significant toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for casual contact and consumption in small quantities.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally not considered toxic

While generally non-toxic, it is advisable to avoid ingesting any plant material unless specifically identified as edible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Silene noctiflora require special care?

A: No, it is very easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance.

Q: When does Silene noctiflora bloom?

A: It blooms at night, typically in summer months.

Q: Is Silene noctiflora toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Quick Reference
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Care: very 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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