Sea Campion

Silene uniflora

Sea Campion is a pretty flower that grows near the coast. It has white, fluffy blooms that look like little balloons and loves to grow in rocky places by the sea.

Habitat: Coastal areas

Appearance

The Sea Campion has striking white flowers with petals deeply notched, emerging from a distinctive, bladder-like, pale green to pinkish-white calyx. Its leaves are a waxy, bluish-green, forming low cushions against harsh coastal winds.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderCaryophyllalesFamilyCaryophyllaceaeGenusSilene

Sea Campion

Interesting facts

It often thrives where freshwater meets the sea, in places most plants cannot survive!

Its scientific name, 'uniflora,' means 'single flower,' even though a plant can have many!

The plant’s deep roots can anchor it firmly, preventing it from being washed away by waves!

Young Sea Campion leaves are edible and taste a bit like peas or asparagus – a salty snack!

Special abilities

Sea Campion can thrive in salty coastal air and soil thanks to special glands that excrete excess salt.

Its low-growing, cushion-like form and tough stems help the Sea Campion withstand powerful winds on exposed shores.

The Sea Campion's inflated, balloon-like calyx helps protect its developing seeds from hungry insects and harsh weather.

Measurements & details

Height: 10-30 cm
Spread: 20-60 cm
Flower Size: 1.5-2.5 cm
Bloom Season: Late spring to late summer
Is Edible: Yes
Toxicity: None
Lifecycle: Perennial
Pollination Method: Insect

Ecological connections

eaten by

Lychnis Moth

Hadena bicruris

its caterpillars feed on the seeds

eaten by

European Rabbit

Oryctolagus cuniculus

grazes on its leaves and shoots

Traits

Flowering

These are the plants that produce beautiful blossoms, attracting pollinators and adding splashes of color to our world. Each flower is a tiny marvel!

Summer Blooming

Enjoy the sunny days with these vibrant plants that show off their stunning flowers all through the warmest months, adding color to the long summer days.

Salt Tolerant

These resilient plants are tough cookies that can thrive even when there's salt in the soil or air, often found happily living near the ocean.

Drought Tolerant

These clever plants are superstars at saving water, thriving even when it's dry and sunny with very little rain. They're nature's resourceful friends!

Pollinator Magnet

Discover plants that are irresistible to our pollinator friends! These beauties are super attractive to bees, butterflies, and other helpful creatures, creating a buzzing hub of activity.

Coastal

Discover life found along the edges where land meets the sea! These habitats are always changing with the tides and waves, offering unique environments.