Rose campion
Also known as
Mullein pink, Dusty miller (rose campion), Lychnis
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Rose campion
Silene coronaria, widely known as rose campion, is a short-lived perennial or biennial in the carnation family (Caryophyllaceae). It forms tidy basal rosettes of soft, silver-felted leaves that lend a luminous contrast to surrounding greens. In late spring and summer, slender, tomentose stems rise 60–90 cm, carrying a long succession of intensely magenta to rosy-pink single flowers with flat, notched petals and pale centers; white cultivars also exist. The silvery foliage reflects sun and resists drought, making the plant well suited to lean, well-drained soils, gravel gardens, and cottage borders. Plants usually flower in their second year, then persist a few seasons but readily self-sow to maintain a carefree colony. Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and night-flying moths; the foliage is generally unpalatable to deer and rabbits. With minimal care—good drainage, plenty of sun, and occasional deadheading—rose campion provides months of color and textural interest, thriving in conditions that challenge fussier perennials.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Rose campion
Water
Water deeply but infrequently. After planting, keep evenly moist for 2–3 weeks to establish. Once rooted, allow the top 5–8 cm of soil to dry before watering again; drought-tolerant plants typically need only occasional supplemental water in summer. In containers, water when the top 2–3 cm is dry and ensure free drainage. Avoid soggy soils and winter wet, which are more damaging than brief dry spells.
Light
Best flowering in full sun (6–8+ hours daily). In very hot or arid climates, provide light afternoon shade to prevent flower bleaching and reduce stress. Too much shade leads to lanky growth and fewer blooms. Open exposures with good air movement help foliage stay dry and tidy, especially in humid regions.
Nutrients
A light feeder that performs best in lean, well-drained soil. Over-fertilizing—especially high nitrogen—causes lush, floppy growth and fewer flowers. In average garden beds, a thin top-dress of compost in early spring is sufficient. In poor, sandy soils, apply a low-dose, balanced fertilizer (e.g., 5-5-5) once at spring growth. Avoid frequent liquid feeding and never fertilize late in the season, which can encourage weak, cold-sensitive growth.
Temperature
Hardy outdoors in USDA Zones 4–8. Tolerates winter cold well when soils are well-drained and resents prolonged wet freezes. Optimal growth occurs in cool to warm conditions (about 50–85°F / 10–29°C). In hot-summer climates, heat is tolerated if roots stay dry and plants receive afternoon shade. Protect first-year seedlings from severe late frosts; established clumps handle subfreezing temperatures with minimal damage.
