Silene vulgaris aka Bladder Campion

Taxonomy

Silene vulgaris, also known as bladder campion or maidenstears, is a plant species in the genus Silene of the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to Europe, but is also found in North America where it is a common wildflower in meadows, open woods, and fields. While it is sometimes eaten in Europe, it can be invasive in the US. Maidenstears is a rare houseplant that is easy to grow and requires regular watering. It thrives in long-lasting, direct light and well-draining soil. Repotting when it doubles in size eliminates the need for added fertilizers. Native to Europe, Northwestern Africa, and Asia, maidenstears belongs to the Silene genus.

Common names

Bladder Campion, Bladder Silene, Cowbell

How to care for Bladder Campion

Difficulty

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

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

Bladder Campion thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Cowbell.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Bladder Campion to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

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 Bladder Campion 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