White Campion (Silene latifolia)

White Campion

Silene latifolia

Its night-blooming white flowers glow softly in dusk, a quiet garden gem. Biennial or short-lived perennial.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates light afternoon shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch
💧
Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
🌡️
Temperature Hardy to -15°C; thrives in cool to temperate conditions; avoid prolonged temperatures above 32°C
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Opposite, ovate to lanceolate, gray-green, softly hairy
  • Flower: White, five-petaled, fragrant, opens in evening and closes by morning
  • Stem: Erect, branched, covered in fine downy hairs
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once every 4 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in late summer to prepare plants for dormancy

Composted banana peel tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solids to avoid attracting pests
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage prolonged blooming
  • Cut back stems to ground level after flowering to promote new basal growth
  • Thin overcrowded plants in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; attracts nocturnal pollinators such as moths