Silene latifolia aka Bladder Campion
Taxonomy
Silene latifolia, also known as White Campion or bladder campion, is a dioecious flowering plant in the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to most of Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa. This herbaceous plant can grow between 40-80 centimeters tall and is often an annual, although it can also be biennial or a short-lived perennial. The plant has an upright growth habit with elliptic leaves that form a basal rosette when young and forked stems with opposite pairs of leaves as it matures.
In late spring to early autumn, clusters of white flowers, approximately 2.5-3 centimeters in diameter, bloom at the tops of the stems. Each flower has a distinctive inflated calyx and five deeply notched white petals. Occasionally, hybrid plants with pink flowers can be found, resulting from crosses with red campion. The entire plant is densely hairy, adding to its unique appearance.
White Campion is slightly scented in the evening and attracts butterflies and other pollinating insects with its rich pollen. It spreads by reseeding itself and can be a lovely addition to mixed borders. However, it is important to note that this plant may be poisonous.
To control the growth of White Campion, it is effective to slice off the weeds just below the soil line, particularly in dry conditions. Using a sharp-edged hoe or an old steak knife in mulched beds can sever the weeds from their roots. Any open spaces left in the mulch should be patched to prevent further weed growth.
Common names
Bladder Campion, White CampionHow to care for Bladder Campion
Difficulty
Caring for Bladder Campion is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
Water
Bladder Campion should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Bladder Campion loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Bladder Campion prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Fertilizer
Repotting the Bladder Campion should be done either when it has doubled in size or on a yearly basis, whichever occurs sooner. Fresh potting soil with all the required nutrients, refreshed annually, will provide the plant with all the necessary sustenance, making the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that plants receive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Silene Genus

Silene flos-jovis Flower Of Jupiter
Silene portensis
Silene linicola

Silene parryi Parry's Silene

Silene latifolia Bladder Campion
Silene viscosa Klebrige Lichtnelke

Silene dichotoma Forked Catchfly
Silene nocturna Mediterranean Catchfly

Silene colorata Carmine Catchfly
