Silene baccifera
Silene baccifera · Caryophyllaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant silene baccifera: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- Summer (June to August)
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Good, down to -15 °C
- Origin
- Central and Southern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, light to gravelly
Care
Watering
Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering considerably in winter. Avoid stagnant moisture which promotes rot.
Light exposure
Place your plant in full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. A bright location stimulates flower production and strengthens the plant.
Soil and drainage
Favour well-drained, light and slightly gravelly soil. Adding sand or gravel improves drainage and prevents excessive moisture problems.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers regularly to extend blooming. Clean up dead foliage at the end of winter and prune lightly to maintain a compact shape.
Fertilising
A balanced fertiliser applied once or twice a month during flowering is sufficient. Limit nitrogen inputs which promote foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
Watch out for powdery mildew in humid conditions and poor ventilation. Aphids may occasionally infest young shoots; a spray of soapy water usually does the trick.
Did you know?
Silene baccifera is mainly known for its fleshy, red berries that persist on the plant for a long time, giving the species its name ('baccifera' means 'berry-bearing'). Unlike many silenes, it does not produce spectacular flowers, but it is precisely this remarkable fruiting that makes it a botanical curiosity prized by European collectors.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.