Silene Littorea

Description

Silene Littorea, also known as sea campion, is a perennial plant species native to the coasts of Europe, the Mediterranean, and North Africa. It belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its showy flowers.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Angiosperms
Class	Eudicots
Order	Caryophyllales
Family	Caryophyllaceae
Genus	Silene

Appearance

Silene Littorea has a low, mat-forming habit with grey-green leaves that are slightly hairy. The flowers are white or pink, with five petals fused at the base, and bloom from late spring to early summer. Each flower is about 2cm in diameter and has five stamens and a long style. The plant typically grows up to 15cm in height and spreads up to 60cm.

Care Guide

Silene Littorea is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to ensure optimal growth:

• Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Plant Silene Littorea in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Place the plant in full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as profusely.
• Hardiness Zones: Silene Littorea is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Silene Littorea is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be susceptible to the following:

• Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Spider mites: These tiny pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
• Crown rot: This disease is caused by a fungus and can be prevented by planting the Silene Littorea in well-drained soil and avoiding overwatering.

Habitat

Silene Littorea is commonly found on rocky cliffs, shingle beaches, and sand dunes near the coast. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate salty conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water Silene Littorea?

A: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Silene Littorea?

A: Silene Littorea is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Q: What is the height and spread of Silene Littorea?

A: Silene Littorea typically grows up to 15cm in height and spreads up to 60cm.

Q: What is the common name for Silene Littorea?

A: The common name for Silene Littorea is sea campion.

Related Plants

• Silene vulgaris
• Silene dioica
• Silene uniflora

References

• “Silene Littorea.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 July 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c516>.
• “Silene Littorea.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 28 July 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/64519/Silene-littorea/Details>.
• “Silene Littorea.” Plantwise Knowledge Bank. CABI. Accessed 28 July 2021. <https://www.plantwise.org/KnowledgeBank/Datasheet.aspx?dsid=48410>.