Saxifrage Catchfly
silene saxifraga
Also known as: ["Mountain Catchfly","Rock Catchfly"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous perennial plant native to rocky mountainous regions, known for its delicate pink or white flowers and hardy nature.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Silene |
| Botanical Name: | Silene saxifraga |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or raised beds with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, gritty soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain form.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; provide dappled shade in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain cool conditions for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in late summer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone (if used).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may form in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within a few months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut back stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or damaged growth; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting the foliage. Allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. 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 scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in response to stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth but can survive light frosts. Prolonged cold may damage roots or cause dormancy.
Solution: Provide winter protection in colder zones; ensure good drainage to prevent root damage from freezing.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop. Growth may stall in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Silene saxifraga. The saponins in the plant can cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Silene saxifraga can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. While not typically life-threatening, it can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSilene saxifraga contains saponins and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon ingestion. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Silene saxifraga suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in rocky, well-drained soils typical of rock gardens.
Q: How often should I water Silene saxifraga?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, as it is drought tolerant.
Q: Does Silene saxifraga attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| 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
