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Alpine Rockery

Silene hookeri subsp. bolanderi

A low-growing, mat-forming, deciduous alpine perennial with hairy green-grey leaves and deeply-cut snow white flowers appearing in the summer

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

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
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
W North America

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, very well-drained, acid soil in full sun. Suitable for rock garden, scree bed or alpine house. Resents winter wet

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by softwood cuttings in spring

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

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids, glasshouse red spider mite and glasshouse whitefly under glass

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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