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Striped corn catchfly

Silene conica · Caryophyllaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant striped corn catchfly: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Foliage
Deciduous
Flowering
April to June
Adult size
20 to 40 cm in height
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Hardy, down to -15 °C
Origin
Mediterranean region and southern Europe
Soil type
Well-drained, light, limey or neutral

Care

Exposure

Place your catchfly in full sun for optimal flowering. It tolerates partial shade locations but flowers less generously. This plant appreciates sunny, airy spots that encourage good air circulation.

Soil

Choose well-drained, light soil that is preferably limey or neutral. This plant dreads waterlogged conditions that can cause root rot. Adding sand or gravel improves drainage if your soil is too compact.

Watering

Water moderately during growth, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce water in winter. Once established, this plant resists drought well and requires little intervention.

Fertilizer

Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring if the soil is poor. Generally, this herbaceous plant doesn't require regular feeding if planted in good potting soil. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.

Pruning and cleanup

Remove spent flowers to extend flowering and maintain a compact shape. At the end of the season, cut back or remove dead parts. As this is a herbaceous plant, no structural pruning is necessary.

Diseases and pests

This plant is generally robust and rarely affected by disease if drainage and aeration conditions are good. Watch for rot in case of excessive moisture. Aphids may occasionally affect young shoots but remain rare.

Did you know?

The name "Silene" comes from Greco-Roman mythology, inspired by Silenus, the god of wine and companion of Bacchus, often depicted laughing. Many silenes flower in the evening and at night, releasing a subtle fragrance to attract nocturnal insects, hence their whimsical and unpredictable appearance that amuses botanists.

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.