Night Flowering Catchfly Native Seeds

Silene noctiflora

Other names: clammy cockle, night scented catchfly

Night flowering catchfly is a big deal in the moth world. Studio 54, Moulin Rouge and Noma rolled into one, all whilst smelling like the inner sanctum of Coco Chanel’s laboratoire in Paris. As night descends the flower opens its leaves and releases a fragrance calling all moths to the party, a party that lasts till dawn. 

Featured in Shakespeare’s "A Midsummer Night's Dream” and used in love spells, a plant endangered in many countries will bring more than just magic to your garden, encouraging butterflies and moths aplenty with the promise of sweet, sweet nectar.

Rare, low maintenance and strikingly beautiful, do yourself a favour and add this clammy cockle to your garden.

How to Plant

Cheap and Easy Method:

Scatter the seeds directly onto bare soil. Clear the area of any debris and lightly rake the soil to create a loose surface. Evenly broadcast the seeds, then lightly rake again to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

More Involved Method:

Use a terram membrane to suppress unwanted vegetation. Add a layer of soil over the membrane, sow the seeds evenly, and press them in gently.

When to Plant

Plant Night Flowering Catchfly seeds in the spring (March to May) or early autumn (September to October).

Where to Plant

Night Flowering Catchfly prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight.

Watering Schedule

Maintain consistent moisture in the soil during the establishment phase. Once established, minimal watering is required.

Blooming Period

Night Flowering Catchfly blooms from late spring through summer (May to August).

Expected Plant Height

Night Flowering Catchfly typically grows to a height of 30 cm to 60 cm.