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Herbaceous Perennial

Silene acaulis

moss campion

S. acaulis is an evergreen, compact, cushion-forming perennial to around 5cm high with tiny, linear, bright green leaves. Flowers borne in spring are pink, or occasionally white and often have notched petals

Other common names
dwarf catchfly
moss pink
see morecushion pink
Synonyms
Silene acaulis compact pink

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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Pink White Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Matforming
Genus

Silene can be annuals, biennials or herbaceous or evergreen perennials, with opposite, untoothed leaves and solitary or clustered flowers with 5, usually notched petals

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Northern Hemisphere

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun or light shade. Resents winter wet

Propagation

Propagate by seed or from basal stem cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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