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Herbaceous Perennial

Silene vulgaris
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

bladder campion

A woody-based, upright, semi-evergreen perennial about 60-80cm tall, with oval greyish-green leaves, and lax sprays of white flowers 2.5cm wide, each with a balloon-like inflated calyx, opening in summer

Other common names
common bladder catchfly
cowbell
see moremaiden's tears
ben
bird's eggs
bull rattle
cow pap
devil's rattlebox
frothy poppy
kiss-me-quick
rattle bay
snappers
spatling poppy
white ben
white bottle
Synonyms
Silene wallichiana
Silene cucubalus
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer White Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed
Hardiness
H6
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, neutral to alkaline soil in full sun or dappled shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut down after flowers fade to prolong flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

May be susceptible to Powdery mildews in dry soils

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