Double Alpine Catchfly Silene alpestris 'Flore Pleno' (d)
ABOUT
Silene alpestris 'Flore Pleno', commonly known as double Alpine catchfly, is a particularly attractive cultivar notable for its showy floral display. The plant exhibits a dense mat of evergreen foliage that forms a lush, cushion-like base. The leaves are small, narrow, and somewhat lance-shaped with a grayish-green color, providing a lovely contrast to the blossoms. The flowers of the double Alpine catchfly are where this plant truly shines. They are double, meaning they have more petals than the typical flower of this species, resulting in a fuller, more ruffled appearance. The petals are a pristine white color and come together in a frilly, pom-pom-like shape that is both elegant and eye-catching. These blooms cluster together at the ends of the stems, creating a bright and striking display above the foliage. Moreover, the flowers possess a delightful, subtle fragrance that adds another layer of appeal. Its blooming period traditionally falls in late spring to early summer, during which time the plant becomes a focal point in the garden with its profuse and attractive flowers. The overall impression it leaves is one of delicate charm and beauty, making it a favored choice for rock gardens, alpine houses, and as an ornamental edging plant in garden settings where it can be appreciated for its intricate and ornate blossoms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Caryophyllaceae
Synonyms
Double Alpine Catchfly, Double Alpine Campion
Common names
Lychnis alpestris var. plena, Silene alpestris var. plena, Silene suecica var. plena, Melandrium album subsp. alpestre (Wulfen) Garcke.
ToxicityTo humans
The Alpine Catchfly (Silene alpestris 'Flore Pleno') is not known to be toxic to humans. Generally, if a plant does not have a known toxic profile, it is not expected to cause serious harm if ingested. Nevertheless, consuming any non-food plants can potentially cause mild stomach upset or allergic reactions in some individuals. It is always best to avoid eating plants that are not intended for consumption.
To pets
Similar to its effects on humans, the Alpine Catchfly (Silene alpestris 'Flore Pleno') is not recognized as being toxic to pets. This means that it is not expected to cause serious harm if your pet were to ingest parts of this plant. However, as with humans, ingestion of plant material that is not part of an animal's usual diet can result in gastrointestinal discomfort, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Therefore, it is advisable to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants to avoid potential digestive issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot [30 cm]
Spread
1 foot [30 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to gardens with its double-flowered blooms.
- Drought Tolerance: Capable of surviving in dry conditions once established, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Cold Hardiness: Can survive in colder climates, making it suitable for alpine and rock gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for gardeners seeking low-effort plants.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.
- Ground Cover: Helps prevent weed growth by covering bare soil with its mat-forming habit.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides color and interest throughout its blooming season.
- Rock Garden Suitability: An excellent choice for rock gardens due to its alpine nature and compact growth.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for growing in containers for patio or balcony gardens.
- Soil Versatility: Adapts to a range of soil types, although it prefers well-draining soil.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Edging Plants: The compact growth habit of Silene alpestris makes it suitable for use as a natural edge or border in ornamental gardens.
- Alpine & Rock Gardens: Because of its alpine origins, it is an ideal choice for rock gardens or alpine troughs to add variety and long-lasting blooms.
- Cut Flowers: The double flowers of the 'Flore Pleno' variety can be used in small floral arrangements or posies.
- Fairy Gardens: The delicate appearance of Silene alpestris 'Flore Pleno' lends itself to incorporation in whimsical fairy garden designs.
- Garden Art: The plant's attractive form and flowers can be used as a living element in garden art installations and sculptures.
- Photography: Because of their unique appearance, these plants are often used as subjects or backdrops in botanical and garden photography.
- Ground Cover: They can be planted en masse to create a low-growing, flowering ground cover that suppresses weeds and provides color.
- Education: Silene alpestris 'Flore Pleno' plants can be used in educational plantings to teach about Alpine flora and cultivation techniques.
- Bee Garden: Even though this plant has double flowers, which are sometimes less attractive to pollinators, it can still contribute to supporting local bee populations in a diverse bee-friendly garden.
- Pots and Container Displays: Their compact size and showy flowers make them excellent for pot culture on balconies, patios, and other small spaces.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant_name is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant_name is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: The bright white flowers of the Alpine Catchfly 'Flore Pleno' are often associated with purity and innocence.
- Youth: The delicate and fresh appearance of the flowers can symbolize youth and new beginnings.
- Love and Attraction: Catchflies, in general, have a stickiness to their stems that can trap small insects. This characteristic can be seen as a symbol of attraction and sometimes, unrequited love.
- Survival: As a plant that thrives in alpine environments, the Alpine Catchfly 'Flore Pleno' can represent resilience and the ability to survive in challenging conditions.
WaterAlpine Catchfly requires moderate watering, typically around 1 inch per week, either from rainfall or manual watering. It's best to check the topsoil — if the top inch is dry, it's time to water. Ensure even moisture without waterlogging the soil by using a watering can to distribute water gently at the base of the plant, avoiding overhead watering to prevent foliar diseases. During hot or dry spells, you may need to water twice a week, but always verify soil moisture before adding more water.
LightAlpine Catchfly thrives in full sun to partial shade. The plant prefers a spot where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day, although it can tolerate some light afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as too little light can lead to poor flowering and leggy growth.
TemperatureAlpine Catchfly is hardy and tolerates a temperature range from approximately 20°F to 85°F. The ideal growing temperature for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F, where it can thrive and flower optimally. It's important to protect the plant from extreme cold and frost, which can damage or kill it.
PruningPruning Alpine Catchfly is beneficial for promoting bushier growth and removing spent flowers to encourage further blooming. It's best to prune or deadhead the plant after blooming, typically in late summer or early fall. By cutting back the plant by about a third, you can help maintain its shape and prevent self-seeding if desired.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAlpine Catchfly (Silene alpestris 'Flore Pleno') thrives in well-drained soil with a mix of sand, loam, and organic matter such as peat moss or compost. A slightly alkaline to neutral pH of 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal for this alpine plant. Ensuring good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
RepottingAlpine Catchfly (Silene alpestris 'Flore Pleno') typically does not require frequent repotting. It can be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when the plant outgrows its container to refresh the soil and allow for growth.
Humidity & MistingAlpine Catchfly (Silene alpestris 'Flore Pleno') prefers lower humidity levels consistent with its natural alpine environment. It fares well in typical household humidity but avoid overly humid conditions which may encourage fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Alpine Catchfly in bright indirect light and cooler temps.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade with good drainage.
Hardiness zone
3-7 USDA
Life cycleSilene alpestris 'Flore Pleno', commonly known as Alpine Catchfly, begins its cycle as a seed that germinates in late winter to early spring under melting snows or in moist, well-draining soils, where temperatures are cool. Upon germination, seedlings establish a small rosette of leaves at ground level and, as temperatures rise, start developing a sturdy root system. In late spring to early summer, this perennial plant enters its vegetative growth phase, producing stems and more leaves in preparation for flowering. The flowering stage occurs in summer when Alpine Catchfly produces dense clusters of double, white, and sometimes pink-tinged flowers, attracting pollinators necessary for sexual reproduction. After pollination, the plant sets seed in distinctive capsules, which then ripen and are distributed near the parent plant or further afield by wind or other dispersal methods. Finally, as temperatures drop again, Alpine Catchfly enters a period of dormancy over winter, where aboveground growth dies back, and the plant survives through its root system, ready to begin the cycle anew with the next warming cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The most popular method of propagating Dwarf Catchfly 'Flore Pleno' is through seed sowing. This is typically done in the spring after the danger of frost has passed, or seeds can be started indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost. To propagate by seed, prepare a well-drained planting medium in a flat or container. Sow the tiny seeds on the surface, as they need light for germination, and gently press them into the soil. Keep the soil moist but not saturated until germination occurs, which usually takes about 2 to 3 weeks at temperatures between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 22 degrees Celsius). Once seeds have sprouted and seedlings have grown strong enough, transplant them to their desired location in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade exposure.
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