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Description
Silene Bernardina, also known as Bernard’s catchfly, is a perennial plant belonging to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to the western United States, particularly in California, Nevada, and Oregon. This plant is known for its bright pink flowers that bloom in clusters on top of tall stems. It is a popular ornamental plant for gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Silene |
Appearance
Silene Bernardina grows up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide. It has numerous stems that are slender and covered with fine hairs. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, measuring up to 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers are pink, measuring up to 1 inch in diameter, and have five petals with notches at the tips. They bloom from late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Silene Bernardina requires well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. Here are some tips for caring for Silene Bernardina:
Water: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.
Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Silene Bernardina is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Silene Bernardina is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Pests such as aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Silene Bernardina is native to the western United States and can be found in open meadows, rocky slopes, and forest clearings. It grows well in well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Silene Bernardina a drought-tolerant plant?
A: While Silene Bernardina can tolerate some drought, it prefers moist soil and regular watering.
Q: Can Silene Bernardina be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Silene Bernardina can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and moist.
Q: How do I propagate Silene Bernardina?
A: Silene Bernardina can be propagated from seeds or by division in the spring or fall.
Q: Does Silene Bernardina attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Silene Bernardina attracts bees and butterflies with its bright pink flowers.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Silene Bernardina:
- Silene dioica
- Silene coeli-rosa
- Silene vulgaris
- Silene flos-cuculi
References
- “Silene bernardina.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286255.
- “Silene bernardina.” Plant Finder. www.plantdelights.com/products/silene-bernardina.
- “Silene bernardina.” Royal Horticultural Society. www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/116605/Silene-bernardina/Details.
