Maiden's Tears Native Meadow Seed

Silene Vulgaris

Other names: bladder campion, cowbell, common bladder catchfly

Symbolic of love, purity and innocence, Maiden's Tears is Soft, strange, and quietly stunning.Delicate white petals float like paper lanterns above inflated calyxes that look ready to whisper a secret. The whole thing sways as if caught in a slow-motion sigh. It’s elegant, ethereal — and unexpectedly edible.

Yes, edible. In parts of Italy and Spain, Maiden’s Tears isn’t just admired — it’s eaten. Known as stridolo or sciopét, the tender young shoots are foraged and tossed into risottos, folded into omelettes, or sautéed with olive oil and a splash of wine. You won’t find it in British supermarkets — yet — but you can grow it in your garden.

It flowers lightly, generously, and without fuss.
It looks like it belongs in a fairytale.
It tastes like a secret.

Sow a few, and see what the wild brings.

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 Bladder Campion seeds in the spring (March to May) or early autumn (September to October).

Where to Plant

Bladder Campion thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight to partial shade.

Watering Schedule

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

Blooming Period

Bladder Campion blooms from late spring through summer (May to August).

Expected Plant Height

Bladder Campion typically grows to a height of 30 cm to 60 cm.

No Grow No Fee

Minimum of 2 years post sowing before claim can be made.