Orange Campion

(Silene cognata)

Orange Campion (Silene cognata)

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Estimated Native Range
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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 50" - 68"
High Temp. 74°F - 81°F
Low Temp. -0°F - 18°F
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Summary

Silene cognata, commonly known as Orange Campion or Orange Catchfly, is a perennial herb native to diverse habitats including forest margins, grasslands, and rocky slopes in eastern and northern China, the Korean Peninsula, and Primorsky Krai in Russia. It thrives in elevations from 1,600 to 6,500 feet above sea level. This species typically grows to a height of 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) with a similar spread. Orange Campion is characterized by its lance-shaped leaves and vibrant orange flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer, offering a showy display that can enliven a garden setting.

Orange Campion is valued for its unique flower color and is used in ornamental gardens, rock gardens, and as part of naturalistic plantings. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types from sandy to loamy. While it does best in full sun to partial shade, it is relatively low maintenance once established. It is not commonly found in cultivation but can be a distinctive addition to a garden with its bright flowers and attractive foliage. In Korea, the leaves are not only ornamental but also edible, adding to its utility in cultivation. Gardeners should be aware that it may require protection from slugs and snails, which find the foliage appealing.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-1.25 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous, Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to forest margins, grasslands, and rocky slopes in eastern and northern China, the Korean Peninsula, and Primorsky Krai in Russia

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: Silene cognata, Lychnis cognata, Lychnis cognata f. albiflora, Lychnis fulgens var. cognata

GBIF Accepted Name: Silene cognata