Hardy perennial growing to about 3 ft (92 cm) in height. Member of the Pink family. Pretty white petals escape from a green, bladder-like pod (calyx). Known as Thunderbolt in Kent, possibly because the flowers were deemed to bring thunder if picked. Also known as Cow Rattle, Fat Bellies and White Riding Hood. Found in the wild in grassy places and roadside verges.Bladder Campion is the food plant of and pollinated by the Campion, Marbled Coronet, Nettle Pug, Marbled Clover and Dark Brocade moths, and also butterflies. Food plant of Sandy Carpet moth caterpillars. It is also the favourite food plant of Frog Hoppers (those insects who leave "cuckoo spit" on plants).
Flowers May to September in any well-drained soil and full sun.
Needs neutral to alkaline soils to survive. Doesn't like shade or soil too wet. Cut back in autumn. Dies down over winter.