Woolly Catchfly

silene otites

Also known as: ["Woolly Campion","Silene otites"]

Family: Caryophyllaceae Genus: Silene Category: Flowers

Overview

A herbaceous perennial plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its woolly stems and pinkish-white flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny borders
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; mimics natural habitat.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering); stunted growth (poor soil fertility); root rot (poor drainage).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with organic matter for nutrients.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); thrives in cooler climates.

Monitor temperature fluctuations; adjust watering in heat; protect from frost.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize lightly to avoid overfeeding; stop in late summer to prepare for dormancy; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or self-seeding; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  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 conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

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

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

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

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips; deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems.

Pruning Plan

Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.

Tools

Clean pruning shears, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as needed.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up; ensure pot has drainage holes.

Method

Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; place in a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots gently; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

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

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or dormancy in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may enter dormancy; roots can suffer in freezing conditions.

Solution: Provide winter protection; move indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); ensure well-drained soil to prevent frost damage.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt or scorch; flowering may be reduced; growth can become stressed.

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Silene otites can indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or infection by pathogens such as viruses or bacteria.

Wilting in Silene otites may result from water stress, root damage, or infestation by pests that disrupt water transport within the plant.

Leaf spots on Silene otites can be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Silene otites is often caused by overwatering or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume the seeds or roots of Silene otites. The saponins in the plant can cause discomfort but are not typically life-threatening.

⚠️ 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

In dogs, ingestion of Silene otites seeds and roots may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ 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 otites 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 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 otites toxic to pets?

A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should I water Silene otites?

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

Q: Does Silene otites 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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