Silene acaulis
moss campion
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
Synonyms
Silene acaulis compact pink
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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cmTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| 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
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- 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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