Night-flowering Catchfly (Silene noctiflora)

Night-flowering Catchfly

Silene noctiflora

Its night-blooming flowers release sweet scent under moonlight. Annual herbaceous flowering plant; common name: night-flowering catchfly.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates moderate summer heat
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Watering Water when top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–22℃; tolerates light frost down to 5℃
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Lanceolate to ovate, opposite arrangement, smooth or slightly hairy
  • Flower: White, fragrant, opening at dusk and closing by mid-morning
  • Stem: Erect, branched, covered in sticky glandular hairs to trap small insects
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote flower production

Banana peel tea:Soak 1 chopped banana peel in 1L water for 24 hours; dilute 1:2 before applying to soil; avoid direct contact with leaves
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flowers to extend blooming period
  • Remove yellowing lower leaves to improve airflow
  • Cut back entire plant after flowering to clear garden beds
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; attracts nocturnal pollinators like moths