Moss campion

silene acaulis

Also known as: ["Cushion pink","Rock campion"]

Family: Caryophyllaceae Genus: Silene Category: Flowers

Overview

A low-growing, mat-forming perennial with dense cushions of small, pink flowers, native to alpine and arctic regions.

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 acaulis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"-40–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"1–5"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or rocky soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day). Tolerates high light but benefits from some afternoon shade in intense heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh midday sun; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid direct indoor light if weak.

Watering

every 7–10 days, less in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; prioritize drainage over frequency.

Soil

well-drained, gritty, acidic to neutral

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

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with gravel if needed.

Temperature

Prefers cool temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C). Tolerates cold but avoids extreme heat.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool temps.

Fertilizing

every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering; stop in fall/winter.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of clumps.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Apply hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Early spring or after flowering.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix like cactus soil with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Trim selectively to shape; remove old growth without cutting into the main crown.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or damaged stems to encourage compact growth and air circulation.

Tools

Clean pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; remove dead parts; shape gently; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth.

Pot Size

One size up (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).

Method

Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; ensure drainage holes are clear.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Prefers slightly root-bound conditions.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare soil mix; 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 at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturating. Allow excess water to drain freely. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target roots directly.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite, sand, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or browning edges in heat; mold or root rot in cold/wet conditions.

Cold Stress

Slows growth but survives freezing. Prolonged cold with wet soil can cause root damage.

Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; protect from frost; avoid overwatering in winter.

Hot Stress

Leaves may curl, turn yellow, or drop. Growth may stall in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly in growing season (spring/summer). Avoid winter feeding.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Silene acaulis may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or underlying disease, often affecting photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant health.

Wilting in Silene acaulis can result from water stress, root damage, or pathogenic infections, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots in Silene acaulis may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic capacity and potential leaf necrosis.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Silene acaulis is often caused by fungal pathogens or excessive moisture, leading to tissue decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Silene acaulis is not toxic to cats. There are no known toxic compounds or adverse physiological effects associated with ingestion by felines.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Monitor pets if they consume large amounts.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Silene acaulis is not toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds or adverse physiological effects associated with ingestion by canines.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Although non-toxic, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Monitor pets if they consume large amounts.
Humans
Non-toxic

Silene acaulis, commonly known as moss campion, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic compounds or physiological effects when ingested in typical amounts.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, it is not recommended for consumption as it is not a food source and may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I propagate Moss campion?

A: Propagate by seed in early spring or by division in late summer.

Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Moss campion?

A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil, and cold climates.

Q: Does Moss campion attract wildlife?

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

Quick Reference
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days, less in win
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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