Flower of Jupiter

silene flos-jovis

Also known as: ["Jupiter's flower"]

Family: Caryophyllaceae Genus: Silene Category: Flowers

Overview

A flowering plant in the family Caryophyllaceae, known for its distinctive blooms.

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 flos-jovis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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, slightly sandy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
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 to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense 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 waterlogging.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of cactus soil and regular potting soil; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).

Monitor room temperature; use a thermometer; adjust care based on seasonal changes.

Fertilizing

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

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on plant growth.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

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%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–4 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray 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 for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

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

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for soil refreshment.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

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 moisture without saturating the soil; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
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.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop too low.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; stop in dormant season.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Silene flos-jovis may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, leading to reduced photosynthesis and overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Silene flos-jovis is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to cell damage and plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Silene flos-jovis are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic capacity and potential leaf drop.

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

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Silene flos-jovis containing saponins. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised.

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

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

The saponins present in Silene flos-jovis can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The effects are typically transient and not life-threatening.

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

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant, especially seeds and roots. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Silene flos-jovis contains saponins which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.

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

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and roots. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the plant.
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 flos-jovis toxic to pets?

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

Q: How often should I water Silene flos-jovis?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Silene flos-jovis attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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