Mediterranean Catchfly
silene succulenta
Also known as: ["Mediterranean Catchfly","Succulent Silene"]
Overview
A succulent perennial with fleshy leaves and small, pinkish-white flowers, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Silene |
| Botanical Name: | Silene succulenta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, xeriscaped area, or container with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity drops below 30%
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or gritty soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done every 2–3 months; major pruning in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light or partial shade during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out fully between waterings; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil with low organic content
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; use a mix designed for succulents or cacti.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures; reduce watering in cooler months.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent room temperature indoors.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in cooler months.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil lightly moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems to encourage branching; remove any dead or yellowing foliage.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
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 allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to excessive water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun hours; increase humidity with a mister or pebble tray; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may suffer from mild gastrointestinal issues if they ingest Silene succulenta. The plant's texture and appearance can make it appealing to cats, leading to accidental consumption. The toxins can cause mild irritation to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Silene succulenta. The plant's succulent leaves and stems can be particularly attractive to pets, increasing the risk of ingestion. The toxins can cause mild irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSilene succulenta contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon ingestion. The plant's succulent nature may lead to accidental consumption, particularly in regions where it is commonly found. Physiologically, the toxins can disrupt normal digestive processes and cause localized irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Silene succulenta toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Silene succulenta?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought tolerant.
Q: Does Silene succulenta attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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