Origin
Silene ×intermedia (Schur) Philip nom. illeg., non (Lange) Bocquet commonly referred to as Intermediate catchfly is believed to be a hybridization that occurred between Silene dioica and Silene latifolia. The plant is native to Europe and has become naturalized in parts of North America.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Intermediate catchfly, but it also goes by the following common names:
- Woolly campion
- Bladder campion
- Silo campion
- Night-flowering catchfly
Uses
Intermediate catchfly is used primarily for ornamental purposes and is considered a popular garden plant. It can also be used for medicinal purposes, where the roots and leaves can be used to treat ailments such as chest congestion, coughs, and throat irritation. The plant is also used to produce red and purple dyes.
General Appearance
The plant has an erect and highly branched stem that can grow up to 3 feet tall. The stems are covered in a downy fuzz, and the leaves are oblong and lance-shaped. The flowers are white in color, and each flower has five petals that are deeply notched at the tip. The plant typically blooms in late spring or early summer, and the flowers can stay in bloom for up to five weeks. The fruiting body of the plant is composed of five lobes, each containing numerous seeds that are small and black in color.
Light Requirements
Silene ×intermedia requires full to partial sunlight exposure to grow and thrive. The plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight or bright light to grow and produce flowers. Lack of proper sunlight exposure may cause the plant to become leggy, and it will not produce flowers. Therefore, it is essential to place the plant in a location that receives adequate light exposure.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in cool to mild temperatures with a temperature range between 12 to 25°C. During the growing season, the plant prefers temperatures around 18°C, but it can withstand temperatures as low as 0°C. During the winter season, the plant becomes dormant and requires a temperature range between 0 to 10°C. Extreme temperature fluctuations and heat above 30°C can cause the plant to wilt, droop and can be fatal for its growth.
Soil Requirements
Silene ×intermedia grows in a well-draining soil mix with a pH range between 6.0-7.5. The soil mix should have a high content of organic matter and should be able to retain moisture. Sandy and loamy soil mixtures provide the best growing conditions for the plant. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, and an excess of alkaline or acidic soil can lead to stunted growth and cause discoloration of leaves. Therefore, it is recommended to maintain a balanced soil pH level.
Cultivation Methods
Silene ×intermedia (Schur) Philip nom. illeg., non (Lange) Bocquet is a hardy plant that thrives well in moderate climatic conditions. The plant can be cultivated either in pots or directly in the ground. If cultivating in pots, ensure that you use a high-quality potting mix that contains rich nutrients. The plant prefers well-drained soil, and you should ensure that the pot has proper drainage holes. Plant the seedlings at a depth of about ¼ inch in the potting mix.
For cultivation in the ground, prepare the soil deeply, breaking up any lumps and removing debris. Add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to the soil to add nutrients. Water the soil thoroughly and plant the seedlings at a depth of about ¼ inch. Space the plants about 6 inches apart to allow for adequate growth.
Watering Needs
Silene ×intermedia (Schur) Philip nom. illeg., non (Lange) Bocquet requires moderate watering. The frequency of watering depends on the climatic conditions and soil type. The plant prefers moist soil and can tolerate short periods of drought. Be careful not to overwater the plant as it may lead to waterlogging and root rot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions.
Fertilization
You can add fertilizer to the soil to supplement nutrients. The plant requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth. Use a slow-release fertilizer or liquid fertilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions. Applying too much fertilizer can burn the plant's roots, leading to stunted growth. Fertilize the plant at least once a month during the growing season.
Pruning
You can prune Silene ×intermedia (Schur) Philip nom. illeg., non (Lange) Bocquet to promote bushier growth and prevent legginess. You should prune the plant early in the growing season to avoid cutting new growth. Use sharp and clean pruning shears to make clean cuts. Cut back the plant by about one-third of its height and remove any dead or diseased growth. You can also deadhead the plant by removing spent blooms to promote prolonged blooming.
Propagation Methods of Silene ×intermedia
Silene ×intermedia, commonly known as hybrid catchfly, is a hybrid plant that is a cross between Silene noctiflora and Silene latifolia. It is a short-lived perennial that is propagated through different methods, including:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Silene ×intermedia is through seeds. The plant produces a large amount of seeds, and they can be collected easily from the plant after they have matured, which usually takes place in the late summer or early fall. The collected seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool and dry place until the following spring when it is time to sow them.
Silene ×intermedia seeds require a period of stratification before germination, which can be achieved by placing the seeds in a moist medium and storing them in a refrigerator for several weeks. Once the stratification period is over, the seeds can be sown directly into the soil, covered lightly with soil, and watered well. The seedlings will emerge within a few weeks, and they can be transplanted once they are big enough to handle.
Division
Silene ×intermedia can be propagated through division, which involves splitting the plant into smaller sections and replanting them elsewhere. This method is best performed in the spring, just as the new growth is beginning to emerge. To propagate through division, carefully dig up the entire plant and separate the roots into smaller sections using a sharp knife or garden fork. Each division should have some roots and shoots to ensure that it will survive and grow when planted elsewhere.
Replant the divisions immediately, making sure to water them well and keep them moist until they are established. Division can be a bit stressful for the plant, so it is recommended to give them some extra care and attention after replanting them.
Cuttings
Propagation of Silene ×intermedia can also be done through cuttings, especially during the summer when the plant is in full growth. Cuttings should be taken from the stems of the plant, preferably from the newer growth. Cuttings should be about 10cm long and should be taken with a clean, sharp cutting tool. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cutting into a rooting hormone to promote root growth.
Plant the cuttings in a moist medium and cover them with a plastic bag to retain moisture and humidity. Place the cuttings in a bright location but out of direct sunlight. Rooting should occur within four to six weeks. Once the roots have developed, the new plants can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Silene ×intermedia
Silene ×intermedia, also known as Silene uniflora x vulgaris, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae. This plant is vulnerable to a number of diseases and pests that can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Here are some of the most common threats and effective ways to manage them.
Diseases
Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes brown or black lesions on the leaves and stems of the plant, eventually leading to defoliation. To control anthracnose, remove infected plant parts, practice good sanitation, and use fungicides as needed.
Fusarium wilt: This soil-borne disease can cause sudden wilting and yellowing of the leaves, stunting growth and eventually leading to death. To manage fusarium wilt, avoid planting in infected soil, practice good sanitation, and use fungicides as needed.
Botrytis blight: This fungal disease causes gray mold on the stems, flowers, and leaves of the plant. To control botrytis blight, improve air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and use fungicides as needed.
Pests
Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to curl and yellow. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other insecticides labeled for aphids.
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and speckling on the leaves and produce webs on the underside of leaves. To control spider mites, improve humidity around the plant, remove heavily-infested leaves, and use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other insecticides labeled for spider mites.
Slugs and snails: These pests can chew holes in leaves and stems of the plant. To control slugs and snails, remove debris and hiding places, use baits or traps, and handpick them off the plant as needed.
By practicing good sanitation and using the appropriate control measures, you can effectively manage diseases and pests that might affect your Silene ×intermedia plant. Regular monitoring and prompt action can help prevent or minimize damage and ensure a healthy, thriving plant.
