FIRE PINK
Silene virginica

Plant Family............ Caryophyllaceae (Pink) Leaf Arrangement... Basal, 2 small stem leaves Bloom date............. April May

Plant Height.... 2 Feet Habitat............ Open Woods Flower Color... Scarlet

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CLICK PICTURES FOR LARGER VIEW DESCRIPTION Fire Pink is a perennial plant that grows on edges of woods or in open areas receiving sun. Its main feature is the bright scarlet flowers. The flowers, which are about 1 1/2 inches in diameter, have 5 notched petals. The notches are the reason for the plant family name "pink". The alternate common name "catchfly" refers to the sticky stems, which can ensnare insects that are not favored for pollination. The leaves are narrow and opposite. Blooming starts in April and continues until June. Fire Pink can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds in prepared soil in the fall to allow exposure to winter conditioning. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and compact. With luck, seedlings will emerge in late spring. The seedlings should not be allowed to dry out until well established. More Fire Pink Images