Silene Uniflora

Description

Silene Uniflora, also known as Sea Campion or Sea Pink, is a species of flowering plants in the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to the rocky coasts of Europe, Asia, and North America. This perennial plant can grow up to 30cm in height and 20cm in width, with a clump-forming habit. It produces small, pink, single flowers with five petals that bloom from May to August. The flowers are mildly fragrant and attract bees and butterflies.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The foliage of Silene Uniflora is evergreen and forms a rosette at the base of the plant. The leaves are blue-green in color, lance-shaped, and slightly hairy. The stem is erect, sturdy, and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are 1-2cm in diameter and bloom in clusters at the top of the stem. The petals are deeply notched and have a fringed appearance. The plant produces seed pods that are oval and about 1cm in length. The seeds are small and brown.

Care Guide

Silene Uniflora is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

Water

Silene Uniflora prefers well-drained soil that is kept slightly moist. It can tolerate occasional drought but does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.

Fertilization

Silene Uniflora does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive growth and weak stems.

Soil

Silene Uniflora prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate poor soil but does not like to be planted in heavy clay or waterlogged soil.

Sunlight

Silene Uniflora prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers and have weaker stems.

Hardiness Zones

Silene Uniflora is hardy in USDA Zones 3-9. It can tolerate cold temperatures and frost but may require protection in extreme winter conditions.

Common Pests & Diseases

Silene Uniflora is relatively pest and disease-free but can be affected by some common problems:

Pests

• Aphids
• Spider mites
• Slugs and snails

Diseases

• Root rot
• Powdery mildew
• Rust

Habitat

Silene Uniflora is native to the rocky coasts of Europe, Asia, and North America. It grows best in well-drained soil and can tolerate salt spray and windy conditions. It is commonly found in coastal gardens, rock gardens, and alpine meadows.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Silene Uniflora be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Silene Uniflora can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the roots.

Q: How often should I fertilize Silene Uniflora?
A: Silene Uniflora does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring is sufficient.

Q: Can Silene Uniflora tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, Silene Uniflora can tolerate salt spray and is a good choice for coastal gardens.

Q: How often should I water Silene Uniflora?
A: Water Silene Uniflora deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

Related Plants

• Silene Vulgaris
• Silene Dioica
• Silene Armeria
• Silene Capensis

References

• “Silene Uniflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on 26 August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m580>
• “Silene Uniflora.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed on 26 August 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/8382/silene-uniflora/details>
• “Silene Uniflora.” Gardening Know How. Accessed on 26 August 2021. <https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/sea-campion/growing-sea-campion.htm>