White campion Silene latifolia
ABOUT
Silene latifolia, commonly known as white campion, displays a striking appearance typically found in grassy habitats and along roadsides. The plant exhibits a marked sexual dimorphism with male and female flowers usually growing on separate plants. The flowers of white campion are rather showy, with males bearing white, five-petalled blooms that have a deeply notched tip and exuding a noticeable fragrance at night. The female flowers are similar but can be distinguished by their inflated capsule that forms after fertilization. The foliage of white campion consists of opposite, lance-shaped leaves that are medium to dark green in color. These leaves are attached to the plant by a short petiole, or leafstalk. The stems are slightly hairy and can sometimes have a reddish-purple tinge. The root system of white campion is quite robust, with a thick, white taproot that delves into the soil to provide support and nourishment for the plant. This strong root system enables the plant to thrive in a variety of soil conditions, though it prefers well-drained substrates. In summary, white campion is distinguished by its dimorphic white flowers, lance-shaped leaves, slightly hairy stems, and robust root system. Its preference for open spaces and adaptive root structure have enabled it to become a widespread and commonly recognized plant in various regions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Caryophyllaceae.
Synonyms
White Campion, White Cockle, Evening Lychnis, Bladder Campion.
Common names
Silene alba, Silene pratensis, Melandrium album, Lychnis alba, Lychnis vespertina, Melandrium noctiflorum, Melandrium pratense, Melandrium dioicum subsp. album, Silene littorea, Silene vulgaris var. alba.
ToxicityTo humans
White campion is not typically known for being highly toxic to humans. However, consuming any part of the plant is not advisable as it can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is important for individuals to keep in mind that each person may have different sensitivities, so it’s best to avoid ingesting parts of white campion.
To pets
White campion is also not widely known for being highly toxic to pets. However, similar to humans, ingestion could lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort in some animals. Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain may occur if pets consume parts of white campion. Monitoring pets and preventing them from chewing on or eating garden plants is the safest practice to avoid any potential issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ecosystem support: Silene latifolia, commonly known as White Campion, provides nectar for nocturnal pollinators such as moths.
- Habitat creation: The plant offers shelter and breeding places for various insects within its foliage.
- Soil stability: Its roots can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Ornamental value: With its white, night-blooming flowers, White Campion can be an attractive addition to gardens and natural landscapes.
- Genetic resource: It serves as a model organism in scientific research due to its distinct male and female plants (dioecy), providing insights into sex chromosome evolution and plant biology.
- Food source for wildlife: Seeds of the White Campion are consumed by birds and small mammals.
Medical Properties- Antispasmodic: Silene latifolia has been traditionally used to relieve muscle spasms.
- Diuretic: The plant may promote urine production, helping in the management of fluid balance.
- Anti-inflammatory: It is believed to have properties that can reduce inflammation.
- Vulnerary: There are historical accounts of its use in the treatment of wounds, suggesting it may aid in healing.
- Sedative: The plant has been reported to have calming effects, possibly assisting with sleep or anxiety issues.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Silene latifolia, commonly known as White Campion, has been used in folk traditions as an indicator of the time, as the flowers usually open at dusk and close again at dawn.
- The seeds of White Campion have been used as a substitute for soap, as they produce a lather when mixed with water due to saponins content.
- In some cultures, the flowers of White Campion have been used to decorate festivities and weddings due to their bright and noticeable white petals.
- White Campion has been used in the study of sex chromosomes and the evolution of sexual dimorphism, offering insights into plant genetics and breeding mechanisms.
- The stems and leaves have traditionally been used as a source of fiber for creating textiles in small-scale, localized production practices.
- Leaves of White Campion have been used as an emergency food source for livestock when more preferred forage is not available.
- The plant has been incorporated in "wild" landscaping designs and restoration projects to attract nighttime pollinators such as moths.
- Crafters have used the dried seed pods and flowers of White Campion in potpourri mixtures for natural scent and aesthetic appeal.
- White Campion has been used in educational settings as a model organism to teach about dioecy and plant reproductive strategies, due to its distinct male and female plants.
- In some traditional celebrations, children use the inflated calyx of the fruit as a "popping" toy, squeezing them to make a small “pop” sound.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe White campion is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe White campion is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: Silene latifolia is commonly known as White Campion. Its white flowers are often associated with purity and innocence.
- Transience: The flowers of White Campion typically open in the evening and close by morning, symbolizing the transient nature of life and beauty.
- Attraction: Emitting a strong scent at night, White Campion attracts nocturnal pollinators, highlighting themes of attraction and allure in darkness.
WaterWhite campion should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. As a general guideline, aim to water white campion approximately once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water, depending on the weather conditions and soil type. During hot and dry spells, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler or rainy periods, you can water less often. Adjust the amount and frequency of watering based on the plant's appearance and soil moisture level.
LightWhite campion thrives in full sun to partial shade. For best growth, plant white campion where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If grown in too much shade, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers. A spot that provides morning sun with some afternoon shade is ideal, especially in regions with very hot summers.
TemperatureWhite campion is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but grows best in conditions between 60°F and 75°F. The plant can survive temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 90°F, but prolonged exposure to extremes may stress it. To ensure the best growth and flowering, try to maintain an environment within the ideal temperature range.
PruningPrune white campion to control growth, remove dead or diseased foliage, and promote a bushier plant shape. Light pruning is best done in the early spring before new growth starts. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, can encourage a second bloom and prevent self-seeding if not desired. Pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season to maintain the plant's appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWhite campion thrives in well-draining soil with a mixture of loam, sand, and organic matter. The ideal pH for white campion ranges from neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 7.0-7.5). Ensure adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
RepottingWhite campion, as a hardy perennial, doesn't require frequent repotting and does well if left undisturbed. Repotting every 2-3 years, or when the plant outgrows its current container, is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingWhite campion does not have specific humidity requirements and can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels commonly found in outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright indirect light and proper ventilation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade to full sun with good drainage.
Hardiness zone
3-9 USDA
Life cycleSilene latifolia, commonly known as White Campion, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in late winter or spring, developing first a small rosette of basal leaves. The plant grows into a herbaceous organism, forming a strong stem with opposite leaves, and reaching maturity within the same growing season. Upon flowering, typically from late spring to early autumn, it displays white, dioecious flowers, with separate male and female plants. After pollination, often by nocturnal insects attracted to the flowers’ scent, the female plants produce a capsule-like fruit filled with numerous tiny seeds. These seeds are dispersed by wind, water, or animals, thereby facilitating the spread of the species to new locations. The plant is a short-lived perennial or sometimes behaves as an annual or biennial, completing its life cycle span within two to three years.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Silene latifolia, commonly known as White Campion, is typically propagated through seeds. The best time to sow White Campion seeds is in spring after the threat of frost has passed or in late summer to early fall. For optimal growth, seeds should be sprinkled on the surface of a well-draining soil mix and lightly pressed into the soil, as they require light for germination. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the germination period. Seedlings can be thinned or transplanted to their desired location once they have developed a couple of true leaves and are large enough to handle. This method takes advantage of the plant's natural reproductive strategies and is most commonly used due to its simplicity and effectiveness.
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