Species bladder campion

bladder campion

Silene vulgaris

The bladder campion (Silene vulgaris) is a small flowering plant with a showy white bloom. Its vibrant flowers feature four petals with a pink center and characteristic inflated yellow bladder that gives the species its name. Bladder campions can be found on roadsides throughout North America and Europe and can easily spring up in grassy areas. They provide food for numerous flying insects and are quite drought and cold tolerant. It makes an attractive ground cover and can be a spectacular sight when allowed to carpet an area.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Root Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 7

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Fruits:

green,white Fruits Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Bladder campion should be kept in moist soil, but not soggy. Water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch (generally once a week or more often if the growing conditions are hot and dry). Avoid overhead watering which can cause fungal issues. If the plant is in a container, be cautious of overwatering which can cause root rot.

sunlight

Bladder Campion (Silene Vulgaris) typically flourishes in full sun, so at least 6-8 hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight is recommended for optimal health and productivity. During the hot summer months, dawn and late evening sunlight is preferable, as the sun's intensity will be reduced during these times and provide some respite to the plant from the sometimes overwhelming midday summer heat. During the colder winter months, direct sunlight during the day is typically beneficial, as the shorter days limit the amount of time available for the plant to receive sunlight per day.

pruning

Bladder campion (Silene vulgaris) should be pruned lightly every spring to promote a healthy, thriving plant. Pruning should take place after the plant has bloomed but before new growth begins. To prune, carefully remove any dead, broken, diseased, or overgrown stems, leaves, or flowers. Be sure to never take more than 1-third of the plant tissue. Additionally, the pruning should create an overall balanced shape for the plant. Doing this annually will encourage the plant to remain vigorous and full of growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Bladder campion typically starts flowering in May.

Harvest Fruit

Silene vulgaris is typically harvested from June to August.

Hardiness Map