Alpine Catchfly
silene alpestris
Also known as: ["Alpine Campion","Alpine Pink"]
Overview
A hardy perennial native to alpine regions, known for its pinkish-white flowers and low-growing habit.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Silene |
| Botanical Name: | Silene alpestris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or alpine trough
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, rocky, or sandy soil with some organic matter; mimics alpine conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or as needed to remove dead/damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if necessary to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant regularly for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; prioritize soil dryness over strict schedules.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit for better drainage.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions, especially during dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent humidity; avoid overwatering cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back stems to a healthy bud or leaf junction.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged parts; focus on post-flowering pruning.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged parts; shape as desired.
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
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial to refresh soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away completely; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering significantly in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in excessive heat; yellowing or root rot in cold, damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below freezing; may enter dormancy as a protective measure.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may become stunted.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water deeply but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize sparingly during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicSilene alpestris is toxic to cats when ingested. The plant's toxic constituents can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic reactions in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe entire plant of Silene alpestris is toxic to dogs. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects due to the plant's toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSilene alpestris contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. The plant's alkaloids and other bioactive substances interfere with normal cellular functions, leading to systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Silene alpestris require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Silene alpestris suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for rock gardens due to its alpine origins.
Q: How often should I water Silene alpestris?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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