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Caryophyllaceae
Alpine Catchfly
Silene alpestris
Delicate tenacity.
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Genus
- Silene
- Native to
- Eastern Alps, Southeastern Europe
- Bloom season
- Summer
- Type
- perennial herb
- Height
- 0.25-0.5 ft
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil
- Well-drained, gravelly soil
- Water
- low
- Hardiness
- 4-7
- Lifespan
- perennial
Did you know
- The common name 'catchfly' comes from the sticky stems of related species that trap small insects, though Alpine Catchfly is less sticky.
- Each pristine white petal is deeply notched at the tip, creating a fringed star-like appearance.
- It forms neat, low cushions of glossy green leaves that remain attractive even when the plant is not in bloom.
- The flowers open wide during the day and partially close at night, a behavior that protects pollen from dew.
- Alpine Catchfly is one of the easiest true alpine plants to grow in lowland gardens, making it a gateway plant for alpine enthusiasts.
Color meanings
0
subtle beauty
1
persistence