Silene viscosa — a medium houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Silene viscosa

Silene Viscosa

Updated · 13 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Silene viscosa, the white sticky catchfly, is a species of flowering plant in the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to cool-temperate areas of eastern Europe, western Siberia, and western and central Asia, and has been introduced to Germany. Molecular analysis shows that it contains two highly divergent genetic lineages. There is a western lineage and an eastern lineage, suggesting that one is a cryptic species.

A note from PlantMom

White sticky catchfly has strong disease resistance and is generally unlikely to develop illnesses. However, it can be affected by pests and diseases present in its surroundings. These infections are generally not serious. In terms of care, this plant needs a moderate level of maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to keep a good appearance and encourage healthy growth. Fertilizing can also help boost flowering. White sticky catchfly is appropriate for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not require extensive care experience. It may need more attention when grown indoors.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Silene Viscosa.

Light

White sticky catchfly comes from bright, open habitats where it flourishes in full sun. It can withstand partial sun but prefers direct sunlight for optimal growth. This plant, which may be annual or biennial, is known for its sun-loving nature.

Water

The white sticky catchfly, a plant native to the Mediterranean regions, thrives in humid climates and well-drained, rocky soils. It can tolerate brief periods of drought but generally requires watering twice a week. Commonly found in rock gardens, this plant efficiently makes use of rainfall, which decreases the need for frequent irrigation.

Temperature

White sticky catchfly can tolerate a wide range of temperature conditions, but its distribution may still be restricted by different combinations of water and heat conditions. It grows best in warm summer climates with adequate rainfall or watering. Extended periods of cloudy, rainy weather, as well as prolonged high temperatures, can raise the likelihood of White sticky catchfly dying. In winter, suitable protection against cold can improve the plant's survival rate.

Fertilizer

When most of White sticky catchfly's blooms have opened to full size, resume fertilizing. During peak bloom production, fertilize about once every three to four weeks, weather permitting. Once White sticky catchfly begins producing fewer new blooms, discontinue fertilizing; there's no need to feed the plant when it can no longer produce more blooms.

Pruning

The white sticky catchfly is known for its sticky leaves and white flowers. To promote healthy growth and more blooms, prune the plant from early to late spring by removing dead stems and spent flowers. This will improve air circulation and encourage blooming. Be cautious not to prune heavily while the plant is flowering, as this can cause stress. Regular pruning helps maintain the plant's shape and vitality, and it also reduces the risk of disease.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Annual, Perennial
Genus
Silene
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Hardiness Zone
4-8
Mature Height
30 cm to 61 cm
Mature Spread
20 cm to 40 cm
Leaf Color
Green, Light Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
Bloom Time
Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Summer
Native Area
Turkey, Sweden, India, Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Armenia, Pakistan, Poland, Ukraine, Serbia, Uzbekistan, Russia, Lithuania, Afghanistan, Germany, Syria, Hungary, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Denmark, Estonia, Mongolia, Finland, Iran, Azerbaijan, Romania, Latvia, Turkmenistan
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Sticky catchfly en White sticky catchfly
PLATES
Silene viscosa flower
PLATE 01 · flower
Silene viscosa flower
PLATE 02 · flower
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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