Silene laciniata Cav.

Horticultural & Botanical History

‘A native of Mexico, whence it was originally introduced in 1823, when seeds of it were presented to the Horticultural Society by the late Right Hon. George Canning.  It was soon, however, lost, and has been for the second time procured by Mr. Graham, to whom we are so much indebted for the introduction of some of the finest plants of the rich mountain Flora of Mexico.  Our drawing was made in the Garden of the Horticultural Society in July 1830.  It is difficult to say what is the proper mode of treating this plant.  It is not hardy enough to live in cold English summers without protection; and it does not thrive either in a greenhouse or a frame.  It is, however, when well grown, a very handsome plant, and richly deserving of careful cultivation.  Mr. Bentham has remarked to us, that this is no doubt Lychnis pulchra of Schlechtendahl and Chamisso, found by Deppe and Schiede at the foot of the mountain Orizaba, where it is, however, a rare plant.’  [BR f.1444/1831].  MB no.219/1843.

History at Camden Park

Seed of this plant was ordered from Warner & Warner, Seedsmen and Florists, Cornhill, on 12th April 1846.  [MP A2933-1, p. 131].  

Notes