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Description
Silene Vulgaris Subsp. Vulgaris, commonly known as “Bladder Campion,” is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. This plant is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, where it now grows as an invasive species.The plant’s scientific name, Silene Vulgaris Subsp. Vulgaris, is derived from the Latin word “silene,” which refers to the Greek god Silenus, and “vulgaris,” which means common. This name reflects the plant’s widespread distribution and association with mythology.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Silene |
Appearance
Bladder Campion has a distinctive appearance that makes it easy to identify. This plant grows up to 60 cm tall and has a white or pale pink flower with five petals. The petals are deeply notched, giving them a fringed appearance. The flowers are produced in clusters at the end of the stems.The plant’s leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and grayish-green in color. They are arranged oppositely on the stem and have a waxy texture. The plant’s stem is smooth and round, with a slightly sticky texture.
Care Guide
Bladder Campion is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.Watering: Bladder Campion prefers moderate watering. It is best to water the plant deeply once a week rather than giving it frequent shallow watering.Fertilization: Bladder Campion does not require fertilization. However, adding a balanced fertilizer once a year can improve the plant’s growth and flowering.Soil: Bladder Campion prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Bladder Campion thrives in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bladder Campion is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, which appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. This can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Bladder Campion is native to Europe and Asia but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, where it grows as an invasive species. It is commonly found in grasslands, fields, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bladder Campion a perennial or annual plant?
A: Bladder Campion is a perennial plant that comes back year after year.
Q: Can Bladder Campion grow in containers?
A: Yes, Bladder Campion can grow in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Bladder Campion?
A: Bladder Campion does not require fertilization, but adding a balanced fertilizer once a year can improve the plant’s growth and flowering.
Q: Is Bladder Campion poisonous to pets?
A: Bladder Campion is non-toxic and safe for pets to consume.
Related Plants
- Silene dioica
- Silene nutans
- Silene vulgaris subsp. marizii
- Silene gallica
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/silene_vulgaris_subsp_vulgaris.shtml
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bladder-campion/growing-bladder-campion.htm
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283525&isprofile=1&basic=silene%20vulgaris
