Silene nutans
Silene nutans · Caryophyllaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant silene nutans: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, semi-evergreen depending on climate
- Flowering
- June to August, white pendant flowers
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -20°C
- Origin
- Central and southern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, chalky or neutral
- Exposure
- Full sun to part shade
Care
Exposure
Choose a location in full sun or part shade, especially in hot regions. Good light promotes generous flowering and a compact habit. It tolerates partial shade but flowers less abundantly.
Soil
Plant the Nottingham catchfly in well-drained, chalky or neutral soil. It dislikes stagnant moisture which causes root rot. Improve heavy soils with gravel or coarse sand.
Watering
Water moderately after planting to encourage rooting. Once established, the Nottingham catchfly is very drought-tolerant and needs little water. Reduce watering in autumn and avoid persistent moisture.
Fertilizing
Fertilizer is rarely necessary if the soil is of good quality. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Excessive feeding promotes foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and cleanup
Remove spent flowers to extend flowering. Clean out dead or damaged stems at the end of winter or in spring. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a bushy, airy habit.
Diseases and pests
The Nottingham catchfly is robust and seldom troubled by diseases. Watch for slugs and snails, especially on young plants in spring. Poor drainage can promote root rot: ensure good air circulation.
Did you know?
The Nottingham catchfly owes its scientific name 'nutans' to its discretely nodding flowers which typically open late in the afternoon. This nocturnal behavior allows it to attract twilight-flying butterflies and pollinators, while its white flowers glow in the dimness to guide them toward the nectar.
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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- Sticky CatchflyViscaria vulgaris
- Creeping baby's breathGypsophila repens
- Mountain sandwortArenaria montana
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.