Sparkling Rose Catchfly Silene Sparkling Rose = 'Insilsparo' (PBR)
ABOUT
The Silene Sparkling Rose, also known as the catchfly, is a captivating plant renowned for its vibrant display of color and attractive form. This particular variety, 'Insilsparo', is distinguished by its frothy blooms that exhibit a deep, rosy pink hue, reminiscent of a glass of sparkling rosé wine. The flowers are densely packed with tightly clustered petals that form a delicate yet impactful cushion or balloon shape, which emerge in an effervescent display above the foliage. The leaves of the catchfly are slender and elongated, presenting a lush green backdrop that contrasts beautifully with the striking pink blooms. The foliage forms a neat and compact mound, providing a perfect stage for the floral performance atop it. What truly sets the flowers apart is the intricate veining that can be observed on the petals, which often appears slightly lighter in color, adding depth and dimension to each flower. The blooms tend to open up during the day and often close at night or in cloudy weather, which adds an element of interactivity to the plant's presence in a garden. Additionally, the Silene Sparkling Rose possesses a somewhat sticky stem and calyx, which can trap small insects, earning the plant its common name, catchfly. However, this attribute does not detract from its ornamental value and is often unnoticed unless upon close inspection. Throughout its blooming period, the catchfly is a magnet for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which are drawn to its vivid colors and gently nodding heads on slender stems that sway gracefully with the breeze. The plant's overall appearance exudes a romantic charm, with a touch of whimsy that can lighten up any garden space.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Synonyms
Sparkling Rose Catchfly, Sparkling Rose Campion
Common names
Silene Sparkling Rose = 'Insilsparo' (PBR)
- Toxicity
To humans
Silene Sparkling Rose is not known to be toxic to humans. However, as with many ornamental plants, it is not intended for consumption. If ingested, mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur, but significant toxicity is unlikely. Always exercise caution and avoid eating ornamental plants, as individual sensitivities can vary.
To pets
Silene Sparkling Rose is not known to be toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe around animals, but ingestion of large quantities of any non-food plant could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Symptoms might include vomiting or diarrhea, but serious poisoning is not expected. If any abnormal signs are observed after ingestion, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Attractive Flowers: The Silene Sparkling Rose produces vibrant pink flowers that can add a pop of color to any garden or landscape.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is fairly drought-tolerant, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates or for water-wise landscaping.
- Low Maintenance: This plant generally requires minimal care, making it ideal for gardeners who prefer lower-maintenance plants.
- Compact Growth: Its compact growth habit makes it suitable for small gardens, borders, rockeries, or container planting.
- Extended Blooming Period: The Silene Sparkling Rose often has a long flowering season, providing extended visual interest in the garden.
- Pollinator Friendly: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollination in the garden.
- Deer Resistance: It is known to be deer-resistant, which can be a particular advantage in areas where deer browsing is a problem.
- Cold Hardy: This plant is hardy in many climates, making it a good choice for gardens in cooler regions.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Crafting - The vibrant petals of Silene Sparkling Rose can be used in craft projects such as pressed flower art or botanical jewelry.
- Photography - With its striking appearance, the plant is an excellent subject for botanical photography, enhancing portfolios and social media accounts.
- Garden Design - It can serve as inspiration for artists and designers seeking natural shapes and color palettes for their work.
- Education - In schools, the plant can be used to teach children about the life cycle of plants and the basics of horticulture.
- Culinary Arts - Edible petals of Silene Sparkling Rose can be used as an elegant garnish for desserts, although it's essential to ensure they are safe and untreated with chemicals.
- Eco-friendly Confetti - Dried petals can make for a natural, biodegradable confetti alternative in celebrations.
- Color Dye - The petals could potentially be used to create natural dyes for fabric or paper, depending on their staining properties.
- Ground Cover - The low-growing nature of the plant means it can be used in landscaping to provide ground cover and suppress weeds.
- Event Decoration - Its attractive form and color make it a natural option for floral arrangements and venue decorations at events or parties.
- Textile Patterns - Imagery of Silene Sparkling Rose can inspire design patterns for textiles, wallpaper, and furnishings.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
Silene Sparkling Rose is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
Silene Sparkling Rose is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Beauty and Grace: The Silene, particularly the Sparkling Rose variety, with its striking pink blossoms, symbolizes beauty and grace, reflecting the elegance of its floral display.
- Playfulness: The vibrant color and playful shape of the petals can represent a sense of joy and playfulness, bringing a light-hearted energy to gardens and floral arrangements.
- Adaptability: Silene plants are known for their ability to thrive in a variety of conditions; this resilience can symbolize adaptability and the ability to prosper through challenges.
- New Beginnings: The growth and blossoming of any flower, including the Silene Sparkling Rose, can be seen as a representation of new beginnings and the start of something beautiful.
- Love and Attraction: Flowers in general, and those with a rose-like appearance in particular, are often associated with love and attraction, making the Silene Sparkling Rose a fitting symbol for romantic feelings.
- Water
The Campion 'Sparkling Rose' should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically every 7 to 10 days, depending on the climate and indoor conditions. Water the plant thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot but do not allow the plant to sit in standing water. Provide enough water to moisten the soil, which might be approximately 16 to 32 ounces for a medium-sized pot, but this will vary based on the size of the plant and its environment. During the winter months, reduce the frequency of watering to match the plant's slower growth rate. It's important to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- Light
The Campion 'Sparkling Rose' thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. A location that receives several hours of direct sunlight with some light afternoon shade is ideal. Avoid placing the plant in deep shade or overly bright, hot conditions that can scorch its leaves.
- Temperature
The Campion 'Sparkling Rose' prefers moderate temperatures and will thrive in conditions between 60°F and 75°F. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F and as high as 80°F but should be protected from extreme heat and frost. The ideal temperature range promotes healthy growth and bloom.
- Pruning
Pruning Campion 'Sparkling Rose' is essential for promoting new growth and maintaining a compact, bushy shape. Lightly prune or pinch back the tips of the plant during the spring and summer to encourage branching. Perform heavier pruning in the early spring to remove any dead or damaged growth and to shape the plant. Pruning is best done just before new growth begins.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Catchfly 'Sparkling Rose' prefers well-draining soil with a mix of loam and sand. The ideal soil pH for this plant is neutral to slightly alkaline, in the range of 6.5 to 7.5.
- Repotting
Catchfly 'Sparkling Rose' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its current container to maintain healthy growth.
- Humidity & Misting
Catchfly 'Sparkling Rose' thrives in average room humidity levels but can tolerate a range from 40% to 70%.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, frost-free area.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The Silene Sparkling Rose, 'Insilsparo' (PBR), also known as Campion, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in the spring when soil temperatures are warm and moisture is adequate. After germination, it develops a rosette of leaves at ground level during its juvenile stage. As it matures, it produces sturdy stems and a profusion of pink, rose-like flowers from late spring to summer, attracting pollinators to aid in reproduction. Following pollination, the plant sets seed in capsule-like fruits that, once mature, release seeds for dispersal, completing the reproductive stage. During the autumn, Campion may die back as it is a perennial in warmer climates or treated as an annual in colder regions where it may not survive the winter, entering a period of dormancy. The plant resumes its growth cycle the following spring, regenerating from existing rootstock or germinating anew from seeds if conditions are favorable.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Silene Sparkling Rose, also known as 'Insilsparo', is often propagated during the late winter or early spring months when the plant is not in active growth. The most popular method for its propagation is by seed sowing. To propagate by seed, take the ripe seeds and sow them thinly onto a well-drained seed starting mix, lightly cover with soil, and maintain moisture without oversaturation. Place them in a location with bright, indirect light and a temperature around 70°F (approximately 21°C). Seedlings usually germinate within a few weeks. Once they’ve grown large enough to handle, individual seedlings can be transplanted into their own pots to grow on before being planted out after the risk of frost has passed.