Silene dioica
red campion
A short-lived perennial tbears its male and female flowers on separate plants.Plants form clumps of downy leaves from which emerge flowering stems up to 1m in height. Flowering is mainly in late spring. Flowers have five deeply notched, pink petals. Seed capsules have toothed edges as they open to disperse ripe seed on female plants
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Pink | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink | Green | ||
| Autumn | Pink | Green | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
Exposure
Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- 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
- Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Occurs naturally on well-drained, moderately fertile soils. Dislikes waterlogging so is rarely found on heavy clay. A flower of hedgerows and semi-shaded places
Propagation
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildlife gardens
- Wildflower meadow
Pruning
None required
Pests
Trouble-free
Diseases
Trouble-free
Get involved
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