Silene cucubalus
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 catchflycowbell
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 wallichianaSilene cucubalus
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | White | Green | ||
Autumn | Green | |||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed Hardiness
H6Botanical 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
Diseases
May be susceptible to Powdery mildews in dry soils
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