Rose of Heaven Silene coeli-rosa

Water

The Rose of Heaven, commonly known as Silene coeli-rosa, prefers evenly moist soil, so it should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this means watering it once a week, but frequency may vary depending on environmental conditions like heat and humidity. The method of watering should be gentle, avoiding direct water on the foliage to prevent fungal diseases. Aim to water the base of the plant, and provide approximately 1 gallon of water each time for a medium-sized plant to ensure the root zone is thoroughly moistened.

Light

The Rose of Heaven thrives in full sun conditions, which means it should receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for the Rose of Heaven would be a south-facing garden bed or a location where sunlight is abundant throughout the day. However, in extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade could be beneficial to prevent scorching.

Temperature

The Rose of Heaven prefers a temperate range and can survive in minimum temperatures of about 40 degrees Fahrenheit to a maximum of around 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for the Rose of Heaven is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important to protect it from frost, as well as excessive heat, which may necessitate provision of some shade or mulch during the hottest parts of the year.

Pruning

The Rose of Heaven benefits from pruning to remove dead or faded flowers, which encourages further blooming and maintains the plant's attractive appearance. Pruning can be done as needed throughout the blooming season. The best time to prune for shaping the plant is during late winter or early spring before new growth begins, which helps to promote a bushier growth habit.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Rose Campion (Silene coeli-rosa) thrives in well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH, between 6.0 and 7.5. A good soil mix for Rose Campion can be prepared by combining two parts garden soil, one part coarse sand or perlite, and one part compost to ensure good drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Rose Campion should be repotted every two to three years as the plant can outgrow its container. Repot in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, using the soil mix as mentioned above.

Humidity & Misting

Rose Campion prefers average to low humidity levels and does well in the humidity typically found in most home environments. Excessive humidity can lead to fungal diseases, so it is best to maintain good air circulation around the plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow Rose Campion in bright light; allow soil to dry between watering.

• Outdoor

  Plant Rose Campion in full sun; well-drained soil; water when dry.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Silene coeli-rosa, known as rose-of-heaven, begins its life cycle when the seeds germinate in the spring, thriving in well-draining soil with full sun exposure. The seedlings emerge and develop a rosette of leaves at the ground level before sending up flowering stalks. The plant flowers in late spring to early summer, producing white to pale pink blooms that open during the evening and are often fragrant. After pollination, which is primarily by nocturnal insects, the plant produces a capsule-like fruit containing numerous small seeds. The fruit matures and the seeds are dispersed by wind or gravity in late summer to fall. Rose-of-heaven is an annual plant and completes its entire life cycle within one growing season, dying after seed production, with new plants growing from the seeds the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Silene coeli-rosa, commonly known as Rose of Heaven, is by seed. Seed propagation is typically done in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. To start, select a well-draining soil mix and sow the seeds thinly on the surface, as they need light to germinate. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Rose of Heaven seeds generally germinate within two to three weeks at a temperature of around 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 22 degrees Celsius). Once seedlings have established and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted to their final growing location, ensuring they are spaced adequately to allow for mature growth.