Silene virginica — a medium houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Silene virginica

Silene Virginica

Updated · 293 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Silene virginica, commonly known as Fire Pink, is a perennial wildflower native to the eastern United States. It typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet and produces bright red flowers with five petals that bloom in late spring and early summer. This plant prefers well-drained soils and can thrive in both full sun and partial shade. It is often found in rocky or wooded areas.

Fire Pink is an important source of nectar for pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Additionally, Native American tribes have used it for medicinal purposes to treat ailments like coughs and sore throats. Despite its name, Fire Pink does not have any known fire adaptations; the name refers to the bright red color of its flowers, which resemble flames.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Silene
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Hardiness Zone
4
Mature Height
20 cm to 76 cm
Mature Spread
25 cm to 46 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Red
Flower Size
5.08 cm
Bloom Time
Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer
Planting Time
Spring
Harvest Time
Early summer, Mid summer
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Fire pink en Scarlet Catchfly en Virginia Campion en Virginia Catchfly en Starry campion
PLATES
Silene virginica leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Silene virginica leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Silene virginica flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Silene virginica flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Silene virginica fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Silene virginica bark
PLATE 06 · bark
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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