Contents
Description
Silene Saxifraga, also known as “Moss Campion,” is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America, and typically grows in rocky mountainous regions, alpine meadows, and tundra habitats. This plant is known for its beautiful, delicate, white flowers that bloom in early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Silene |
Appearance
The Silene Saxifraga plant has a low, cushion-like growth habit and can reach a height of 10-20cm. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are green in color and grow in a rosette formation. The flowers are small, white, and star-shaped, with five petals that are deeply divided. They bloom in early summer, and the plant produces a profusion of flowers that cover the cushion-like growth. The flowers are followed by small, brown capsules that contain numerous seeds.
Care Guide
For optimal growth, Silene Saxifraga requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate dry conditions. However, it should be watered regularly during the growing season. Fertilization is not necessary, but adding a slow-release fertilizer in early spring can help boost growth. This plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Silene Saxifraga is generally disease and pest-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly draining soil. Aphids and spider mites may infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and flowers. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Silene Saxifraga is native to Europe, Asia, and North America and grows in rocky mountainous regions, alpine meadows, and tundra habitats. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate dry conditions. Its low-growing, mat-forming habit makes it an ideal plant for rock gardens, alpine gardens, and container gardening.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Silene Saxifraga a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Silene Saxifraga is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for, making it suitable for beginners.
Q: Can Silene Saxifraga be grown indoors?
A: No, Silene Saxifraga is an outdoor plant that requires full sun to partial shade.
Q: How often should Silene Saxifraga be watered?
A: Silene Saxifraga should be watered regularly during the growing season to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Does Silene Saxifraga attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Silene Saxifraga attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies with its beautiful, white flowers.
Related Plants
- Silene acaulis
- Silene armeria
- Silene dioica
- Silene uniflora
References
- “Silene Saxifraga (Moss Campion).” Plant Lust. https://plantlust.com/plants/silene-saxifraga/
- “Silene Saxifraga.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c860
- “Silene Saxifraga.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/28872/Silene-saxifraga/Details
