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Description
Silene Cognata, commonly known as the Sand Dune Catchfly, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to the United States and can be found growing in sand dunes, sandy soils, and beach habitats. This plant has a unique ability to trap sand particles in its leaves, which helps it to tolerate harsh sandy environments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Silene |
Appearance
Silene Cognata has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are about 2-3 inches long. The leaves are a pale green color and are covered with fine hairs. The plant grows to a height of 6-12 inches and produces small, pink flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers have five petals and are approximately 1 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Silene Cognata is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers to grow in well-drained soil that is sandy or gravelly. It can tolerate drought conditions and does not require regular watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help to promote growth. This plant prefers full sunlight and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Silene Cognata is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. Overwatering can also lead to the development of fungal diseases. Aphids may occasionally infest the plant, but they can be easily controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Silene Cognata is native to the United States and can be found growing in sand dunes, sandy soils, and beach habitats. It is commonly found in coastal regions of the eastern and southeastern United States.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Silene Cognata a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, Silene Cognata is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering.
Q: What is the best soil type for Silene Cognata?
A: Silene Cognata prefers to grow in well-drained soil that is sandy or gravelly.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Silene Cognata?
A: Silene Cognata is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Q: Does Silene Cognata require fertilization?
A: Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help to promote growth.
Related Plants
- Silene Armeria
- Silene Capensis
- Silene Coeli Rosa
- Silene Dichotoma
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Silene cognata. Retrieved September 22, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=SICO12
- Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). PLANTS Profile for Silene cognata (sand dune catchfly). Retrieved September 22, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SICO12
- Gibson, J. P., & Nobel, P. S. (1986). The sand dune catchfly, Silene cognata: anatomical and ecological characteristics. American Journal of Botany, 73(5), 644-652. doi: 10.2307/2443877
