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Description
Silene Sinensis, also known as Chinese campion or Chinese catchfly, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the pink family (Caryophyllaceae). It is native to China and Japan and can grow up to 60cm tall. The plant produces a taproot that can reach up to 40cm deep in the soil. Silene Sinensis blooms in summer and produces small, fragrant, white or pink flowers that grow in clusters. The plant has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its expectorant, antitussive, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Silene |
Appearance
Silene Sinensis has lance-shaped, dark green leaves that grow up to 8cm long and 2cm wide. The plant produces a stem that can grow up to 60cm tall and is covered in fine hairs. The flowers are small, measuring up to 1cm in diameter, and grow in clusters at the end of the stem. They are usually white or pink and have five petals that are deeply notched at the end. The plant produces a taproot that can reach up to 40cm deep in the soil.
Care Guide
Silene Sinensis prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate partial shade but prefers full sun. The plant requires moderate watering and should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Silene Sinensis is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Silene Sinensis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by rust, powdery mildew, and root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Silene Sinensis is native to China and Japan and can be found growing in fields, forests, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Silene Sinensis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Silene Sinensis can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: Can Silene Sinensis be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, Silene Sinensis can be propagated by cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Q: Is Silene Sinensis toxic to pets?
A: Silene Sinensis is not known to be toxic to pets.
Q: How often should Silene Sinensis be fertilized?
A: Silene Sinensis should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Silene Capensis
- Silene Vulgaris
- Silene Flos-cuculi
- Silene Scouleri
References
- “Silene Sinensis (Silene)” – Gardenia.net
- “Silene Sinensis” – Missouri Botanical Garden
- “Silene Sinensis” – Plant Finder – Monrovia
