Silene virginica
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Tried and True Recommended by 2 Professionals
Species Native to Missouri
Common Name: fire pink
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Zone: 4 to 8
Native Range: Eastern North America
Height: 1 to 1.5 feet
Spread: 0.75 to 1.5 feet
Bloom Time: April to June
Bloom Description: Red
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Dry to medium
Maintenance: Medium
Flowers: Showy Flowers
Wildlife: Attracts Hummingbirds
Tolerates: Clay Soil, Dry Soil, Shallow, Rocky Soil, Drought

Culture

Grow in average, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers part shade and moist, sandy or clay soils. Requires excellent drainage.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Fire pink is a Missouri native wildflower which occurs on rocky wooded slopes, open woods and thickets primarily in the Ozark region of the State. A clump-forming perennial which grows 12-20" tall. Small clusters of scarlet red flowers (2" across) with five notched petals appear in spring atop long, slender stems. Narrow, lance-shaped leaves (to 4" long). Silene is in the same family as Lychnis and Dianthus.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Garden Uses

Best in part shade areas of rock gardens, wildflower gardens, native plant gardens, cottage gardens or woodland gardens.

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