Silene nocturna aka Mediterranean Catchfly

Taxonomy

Silene nocturna is a rare annual herb in the Caryophyllaceae family, found in various habitats such as ditches, wastelands, rocky areas, and forests. It has a self-supporting growth form, simple broad leaves, and can grow up to 0.39 m with erect, usually branched stems. Its flowers are crowded in raceme-like cymes, with pink bifid petal-limbs, and oblong-obovoid calyxes pubescent with ascending hairs. The plant might be poisonous, and can be controlled using cultural and mechanical methods or herbicides. As a houseplant, Silene nocturna needs regular watering, long-lasting direct light, and well-draining soil. Repotting it each time it doubles in size eliminates the need for added fertilizers.

Common names

Mediterranean Catchfly, Silene Nocturna

How to care for Mediterranean Catchfly

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Mediterranean Catchfly due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Mediterranean Catchfly should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Mediterranean Catchfly 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 Mediterranean Catchfly prefers bright diffused 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

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Mediterranean Catchfly is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.


More info:
Wikipedia