Seeds – Bladder Campion

Bladder campion ( Silene vulgaris ) is a perennial plant native to Quebec, reaching 30 to 60 cm in height. It is distinguished by its white or pinkish flowers with notched petals, accompanied by a swollen, balloon-shaped calyx, hence its name.

2. Sowing

• Difficulty level : Easy
• Type of sowing : Direct in open ground in spring or autumn
• Sowing technique : Sow the seeds on the surface, then press them down lightly to ensure good contact with the soil.
• Sowing depth : On the surface
• Germination days : 14 to 21 days
• Germination temperature : 15 to 20C

3. Culture

• Ease of cultivation : Easy
• Growing season : Spring to fall
• Transplanting : Not necessary, prefers direct sowing
• Plant spacing : 20 to 30 cm between plants
• Hardiness Zone : 3 to 9
• Light : Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Type : Dry to moderately moist, well-drained soils
• Soil pH : Neutral to slightly alkaline
• Soil Moisture : Drought tolerant once established
• Soil fertility : Not very demanding
• Time before flowering : 1 to 2 years after sowing
• Watering : Moderate, water during periods of prolonged drought
• Other characteristics : Attractive ornamental plant for naturalistic gardens and flower meadows, providing delicate flowering and interesting texture to the garden

4. Use

Ideal for borders, rock gardens and native meadows, bladder campion adds a touch of lightness with its airy flowers and fine foliage.

5. Companionship

• Friendly plants : Campanulas, yarrow, daisies
• Enemy plants : None known

This native plant is well adapted to Quebec’s climates and is an excellent choice for gardeners wishing to incorporate local and resistant species into their landscaping.