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Description
Silene Lemmonii, also known as Lemmon’s catchfly, is a species of flowering plant in the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to the western United States, specifically found in California, Nevada, and Oregon. The plant produces clusters of small, delicate, pinkish-white flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Silene |
Appearance
Silene Lemmonii is a small, herbaceous perennial plant that typically grows to be about 6-12 inches tall. The leaves of the plant are lance-shaped and grow in a rosette at the base. The stem of the plant is slender and leafless, topped with clusters of small, delicate pinkish-white flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers have five petals and are approximately 1cm in diameter.
Care Guide
To care for Silene Lemmonii, it is recommended to plant it in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate some shade. It is important to water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Silene Lemmonii is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Silene Lemmonii is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it can be susceptible to aphids and whiteflies, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so be sure to water the plant appropriately.
Habitat
Silene Lemmonii is native to the western United States and can be found in various habitats, including rocky slopes, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate some drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Silene Lemmonii a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Silene Lemmonii is a perennial plant.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Silene Lemmonii?
A: Silene Lemmonii prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0.
Q: Can Silene Lemmonii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Silene Lemmonii can be grown in containers as long as they have well-draining soil and are watered appropriately.
Q: Does Silene Lemmonii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Silene Lemmonii is known to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Silene acaulis
- Silene armeria
- Silene caroliniana
- Silene dioica
- Silene vulgaris
References
- “Silene Lemmonii.” Calflora, www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=7479.
- “Silene Lemmonii.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SILEL2.
- “Silene Lemmonii.” Pacific Northwest Wildflowers, www.pnwflowers.com/flower/silene-lemmonii.
