Overview
Silene involucrata (Cham. & Schlecht.) Bocquet ssp. elatior (Regel) Bocquet is a plant species that belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to Mexico, particularly in the states of Chiapas, Hidalgo, and Veracruz.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "flower of the night" and "ojitos de santa lucia" in Mexico.
Uses
Silene involucrata spp. elatior has been used for medicinal purposes in Mexico and can be employed as a sedative, digestive aid and to relieve headaches. It is also used to treat cough, fever, and other respiratory illnesses.
Appearance
The plant is a herb that grows up to 60 centimeters in height. The leaves are oblong to lanceolate, with a length of 1 to 3 centimeters, and they are covered with fine hairs. The flowers have a diameter of 1 to 2 centimeters, with white to pink petals that have deeply cleft tips. The inflorescence consists of a compact spike-like cyme with involucrate bracts at the base. The fruit is a capsule with a length of 6 to 10 millimeters, which contains numerous dark brown seeds.
Light Requirements
Silene involucrata ssp. elatior requires full sunlight to grow properly. Partial shade can reduce the growth rate and overall health of the plant. Therefore, it is recommended to plant the species in areas with direct access to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures - from cool to hot. However, it favors a moderate climate and tends to thrive in areas with an average temperature of 20°C. Silene involucrata ssp. elatior is intolerant to severe cold and frost, and care must be taken to ensure that the plant's growth is not adversely affected by low temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-drained soils that are nutrient-rich and have adequate moisture content. Silene involucrata ssp. elatior can grow in different soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils, provided that the soil is not compacted. A pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 is ideal for plant growth. The soil should also be airy and loose to prevent waterlogging. In areas with poor soil quality, adding organic matter such as compost, manure, or leaf mold can enhance soil quality and promote healthy growth of the plant.
Cultivation methods
Silene involucrata ssp. elatior is a species of flowering plant in the family Caryophyllaceae. It is a hardy perennial that can grow up to 50 cm in height. It prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. This plant can be propagated by seed or by division in the spring.
Watering needs
Silene involucrata ssp. elatior requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Watering should be reduced during the winter months to avoid root rot. However, in the summer months, it may require more frequent watering as the soil dries out more quickly.
Fertilization
Silene involucrata ssp. elatior does not require frequent fertilization. However, applying a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help with growth and flowering. It is essential to avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning of Silene involucrata ssp. elatior is not necessary. However, it may be beneficial to deadhead the plant after flowering to encourage new growth and possible reblooming. Pruning the stems back in the fall can also help promote a bushier appearance in the following season.
Propagation of Silene involucrata (Cham. & Schlecht.) Bocquet ssp. elatior (Regel) Bocquet
Silene involucrata (Cham. & Schlecht.) Bocquet ssp. elatior (Regel) Bocquet can be propagated through both sexual and asexual propagation methods.
Sexual Propagation
Propagation through seeds is the most commonly used sexual propagation method for Silene involucrata ssp. elatior. The seeds can be sown directly in the soil or can be started indoors before transplanting. The best time to sow the seeds is during springtime when the soil temperature reaches 15 to 18 degrees Celsius. The seeds should be sown 2 to 3 millimeters deep and should be watered regularly until they germinate, which usually takes around two weeks.
Asexual Propagation
Silene involucrata ssp. elatior can also be propagated through asexual propagation methods like stem cuttings and division of root clumps. Dividing the root clumps can be done during the fall or early spring season, after the plant is dormant. When dividing, care should be taken to ensure that each division has a good root system and enough foliage to support itself.
Stem cuttings are another asexual propagation method used for Silene involucrata ssp. elatior. It involves taking a cutting of the plant's stem that is around 5 centimeters long and has at least two nodes. After cutting, the leaves on the lower half of the stem should be removed, and the stem should be planted in potting soil. The cutting should be kept moist, and roots will start to grow from the stem's nodes within four weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Silene Involucrata ssp. Elatior
Silene involucrata ssp. elatior, commonly known as Cushion Pink or Elates Silene, is relatively disease-resistant and resistant to pests. However, like all plants, it may suffer from certain diseases and pest infestations. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant, along with management tips:
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects many plants, including Silene involucrata ssp. elatior. You can identify it by the white or gray powder-like substance that appears on the leaves. To manage this disease, you can try spraying a solution of baking soda and water onto the affected leaves. Alternatively, you can use a fungicide that's labeled for powdery mildew.
2. Rust: Rust is another fungal disease that can infect Silene involucrata ssp. elatior. It causes orange or brown colored bumps or large patches on the leaves. To manage rust, you can try removing affected plant parts and using a fungicide labeled for rust.
Pests
1. Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails can be a problem, particularly in damp environments. They eat small holes in the leaves and can do severe damage to young plants. You can manage them by using slug and snail bait or by physically removing them.
2. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that may come in green or yellow colors. They suck sap from the plant, which in turn, may cause stunted growth and deformities. You can manage aphids by spraying a solution of water and dish soap or purchase an insecticide that's labeled for aphids.
3. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that may cause yellow leaves and webbing on the plant. You can manage them by increasing the humidity around the plant or spraying with a miticide that's labeled for spider mites.
By keeping your Silene involucrata ssp. elatior plant in good growing conditions, you can ensure that it is strong and healthy enough to resist most pests and diseases.
