Sea Campion

silene littorea

Also known as: ["Rupturewort","Beach Campion"]

Family: Caryophyllaceae Genus: Silene Category: Flowers

Overview

A coastal perennial herb with white, five-petaled flowers and fleshy leaves, typically found in sandy or rocky coastal habitats.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, coastal areas, or sunny borders
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
  • 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.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
  • 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 in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf burn.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near reflective surfaces.

Watering

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

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

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

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

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature indoors.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed sowing.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.

Medium

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

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rate.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Deadheading and selective trimming of stems.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.

Tools

Clean pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Check for dead or diseased stems; prune after flowering; clean tools before use.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; 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 freely; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the root zone.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Provide frost protection; move indoors in freezing conditions; avoid overwatering in cold.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growing season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Silene littorea may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Silene littorea can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Silene littorea may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Silene littorea due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume the seeds or roots of Silene littorea. The saponins in the plant can cause digestive upset, though severe toxicity is rare.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 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 littorea 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 abdominal pain
🌿 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 littorea 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 consumption 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 littorea suitable for coastal gardens?

A: Yes, it thrives in sandy or rocky coastal habitats and is well-adapted to such environments.

Q: Does Silene littorea attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a valuable addition to wildlife gardens.

Q: How should Silene littorea be cared for?

A: It requires moderate care, including well-drained soil and partial shade, and is drought-tolerant once established.

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