Silene bourgaei
Care, watering, light and tips for Silene bourgaei on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Caryophyllaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Silene bourgaei
Silene bourgaei, known as Gomera Catchfly, is a small perennial herbaceous plant endemic to La Gomera, in the Canary Islands. It is characterized by its slender stems and lanceolate leaves, often covered with fine hairs, and its delicate pink or whitish flowers that bloom in spring. It is ideal for rockeries, path edges, or as part of a Canarian native plant garden, adding a touch of natural delicacy.
Native range
Canary Islands
Care tips
It prefers full sun exposure or light partial shade, adapting well to dry Mediterranean or subtropical climates. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out between waterings, as it is sensitive to excess moisture. It requires well-drained, sandy or rocky soil, similar to its natural habitat. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; it's better to under-water than over-water.
How to save a dying Silene bourgaei
- Warning signs
- Wilting, yellowing or browning leaves, leaf drop, soft stems. Indicates water stress or rot.
- First aid
- If dry, water thoroughly. If waterlogged, remove from pot, check roots, prune rotten ones. Repot in fresh, well-draining substrate.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is fatal. Also intense midday direct sun and lack of proper drainage.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's quite resilient. Remove damaged parts and adjust watering and location.