Plant profile
Botanical name: Silene flos-jovis
German name: Campion
Family: Caryophyllaceae (clove family)
Flowering time: May to July
Blossoms: Bright purple
Growth habit: Rosette-like, 40 to 60cm
Origin: French, Italian and Swiss Alps
Details of Silene flos-jovis
Silene flos-jovis, commonly known as campion, is a fascinating plant that is a favourite in many gardens due to its delicate beauty and charming character. This perennial shrub belongs to the carnation family (Caryophyllaceae) and is native to Europe, especially the Alps and other mountainous regions. Its scientific name, Silene flos-jovis, comes from Latin and literally means „flower of Jupiter“. For this reason, it is often referred to as Jupiter’s carnation.
The campion is characterised by its attractive, bell-shaped flowers, which are a bright purple-red. These flowers are borne on slender, hairy stems and usually bloom from spring to summer, making them a valuable addition to any garden. The plant reaches a height of around 40 to 60 centimetres and forms loose bushes that can be easily integrated into mixed herbaceous borders or rock gardens.
It prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil. At the same time, it is considered a very adaptable plant. It is relatively easy to care for and only requires moderate watering to thrive. Another advantage is its tolerance to drought, which makes it an ideal choice for gardens with changing weather conditions.
Use of the campion in design
Thanks to its attractive flowers and appealing appearance, the campion is ideal for a wide range of garden design applications. For example, Silene flos-jovis blends seamlessly into mixed herbaceous borders and adds a touch of colour with its colourful flowers. It harmonises particularly well with other spring and summer flowers.
The nectar-rich flowers also attract bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects. It therefore makes a valuable contribution to promoting biodiversity in the garden. With the help of the campion, you can create a living habitat for these important pollinators in your garden.
Overall, Silene flos-jovis is a versatile and attractive plant that can enhance any garden with its charming flowers and uncomplicated character. By using it in your garden design, you can not only enhance the beauty of your garden, but also create a valuable habitat for pollinating insects.
