Night-flowering catchfly
Silene noctiflora · Caryophyllaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant night-flowering catchfly: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September, white flowers
- Adult size
- 30 to 80 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy, resistant to -15°C
- Origin
- Europe, North Africa and Western Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, chalky, undemanding
Care
Exposure
Night-scented stock thrives in full sun or partial shade. A sunny exposure promotes more abundant and fragrant flowering. Avoid overly shaded locations that would reduce the plant's vigor.
Watering
Water moderately after planting to establish the root system. Once established, the plant is relatively drought-tolerant. Water more during periods of intense heat, but avoid excess moisture which promotes fungal diseases.
Soil Preparation
This plant prefers light, well-drained and rather chalky soil. Improve heavy soil with sand or gravel. It adapts to poor and stony soils, making it ideal for rockeries or slopes.
Fertilizing
Fertilizer application is generally not necessary, as night-scented stock grows easily on poor soils. A moderate application of balanced fertilizer in spring can boost flowering, but it's optional.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pinch the tips of young shoots in spring to encourage bushy growth. Remove spent flowers to extend the flowering period. In late autumn, cut the plant back to ground level.
Diseases and Pests
Watch for powdery mildew and root rot if moisture is excessive. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Pests are rare on this robust plant.
Did you know?
Night-scented stock owes its common name to its flowers that open in late afternoon and evening, releasing a powerful sweet fragrance to attract nocturnal pollinating insects. This strategy of evening flowering makes it an ideal companion for gardens to discover in the evening, particularly appreciated in the Mediterranean.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.