Silene latifolia

RHS Plant Profile
white campion
white campion Mike L. Grant 1999

Other common names

bull rattle, cow rattle, white cockle, white robin

Herbaceous Perennial

An upright biennial or short-lived perennial with elliptic leaves and clusters of white flowers to 3cm across, with a slight scent in the evening, in summer

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Caryophyllaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
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

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 sown in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe or division of offsets when dormant

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Wildlife gardens
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to a smut and powdery mildews