Silene Otites

Description

Silene Otites is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is commonly known as the Spanish catchfly or the ear-of-the-field. The plant is native to Europe and Asia and can grow up to 50cm in height. It has a woody base and produces flowers that are white or pink in color. The plant has a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Caryophyllales
Family	Caryophyllaceae
Genus	Silene

Appearance

Silene Otites has lance-shaped leaves that are grayish-green in color. The leaves are around 10cm long and 2cm wide. The flowers of the plant are around 2cm in diameter and have five petals. The petals are white or pink in color and have a slightly fringed edge. The plant blooms in the summer and produces flowers that are sweetly fragrant. The plant has a woody base and can grow up to 50cm in height.

Care Guide

Silene Otites requires well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Water the plant regularly but do not overwater it. Overwatering can cause root rot. Prune the plant in the spring to control its size.

Common Pests & Diseases

Silene Otites is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if it is overwatered.

Habitat

Silene Otites is native to Europe and Asia. It grows in open fields, meadows, and grasslands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Silene Otites a perennial or annual plant?

A: Silene Otites is a perennial plant.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Silene Otites?

A: Silene Otites is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Q: What type of soil does Silene Otites prefer?

A: Silene Otites prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged.

Q: What pests can affect Silene Otites?

A: Silene Otites can be affected by aphids and spider mites.

Related Plants

• Silene dioica
• Silene vulgaris
• Silene flos-cuculi

References

• “Silene Otites.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c966. Accessed 9 May 2021.
• “Silene Otites.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/17873/Silene-otites/Details. Accessed 9 May 2021.
• “Silene Otites.” PlantFiles, www.garden.org/plantfiles/6467/Silene-Otites. Accessed 9 May 2021.