code: 697
flowers on grey stems above clumps of grey woolly hairy leaves
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Common name: White rose campion
Plant Classification: Hardy perennial
Minimum Height: 60 cm
Maximum Height: 90 cm
The unusual albino form of the traditional cottage garden plants which has massed heads of pure white flowers on grey stems above clumps of grey woolly hairy leaves.
Sowing advice:
For best results, sow seeds immediately onto a good soil-based compost. Cover the seeds with fine grit or compost to approximately their own depth. They can be sown at any time, and germination can sometimes be quicker if kept at 15 to 20 degrees C. However, we sow most seeds in an unheated greenhouse and wait for natural germination as many seeds have built-in dormancy mechanisms, and often wait for spring before emerging regardless of when they are sown. But spring sowing will obviously give them a full season of growth if successful germination occurs.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION:
Rose Campion performs nicely as an addition to areas that generally receive little attention, as it is drought tolerant and overall low-maintenance. looking its very best when planted in groupings. Great for borders. Cut back to ground level after bloom, especially if you want to curtail its spreading by dropped seed. After the ground freezes, provide a 2″ layer of mulch to protect during winter in zones 6 and colder. Renew plantings by dividing in early spring every 2-3 years in zones 6 and colder; autumn in warmer areas or allow to self sow.
Water Use: Low Water Use
Watering Details: Drought tolerant once established. 1″ of water per week initially, then water during dry spells.
Soil pH: Mildly acidic to neutral
Fertilizer: Mix about an inch of compost into the soil at time of planting, and top-dress every spring with a thin layer; scratch in.
Diseases & Pests: No major problems.
PLANT DESCRIPTION
Plant: Mounds of silvery-green/grey, woolly stems, and foliage; oval-shaped leaves up to 5″ in length.
Seeds: Flowers turn into brown capsules containing tiny black seeds. Self-sows but might not come true to type.
When to Cut: Halfway-opened flowers
