Silene virginica (Fire Pink)

Glowing like embers, Silene virginica (Fire Pink) is a showy clump-forming perennial boasting long, lance-shaped, opposite leaves and brilliant clusters of scarlet red flowers. Blooming profusely from mid-spring to early summer, each flower, 2 in. across (5 cm), features five thin petals cleft at the tip, and sticky sepals. They are borne in loose clusters at the top of slender sticky stems. Rich in pollen, they attract hummingbirds and butterflies. This wildflower is short-lived, although it may self-sow in optimum growing conditions. It is an excellent accent plant for a shaded rock garden and a great addition to wildflower gardens, native plant gardens, woodland gardens, or cottage gardens.

• Grows up to 12-18 in. tall (30-45 cm) and 10-18 in. across (25-45 cm).
• Pest and disease-free and low maintenance, this eye-catching beauty is also drought tolerant (once established).
• Thrives in part shade in moderately fertile, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. Excellent drainage is essential and sandy or gravelly soils or light loams are favored by this plant. Tolerates full sun but best in partly sunny sites with afternoon shade.
• Great for beds and borders, cottage gardens, or prairies and meadows.
• Propagate by seed or cuttings. Divide mature plants in late fall or early spring by removing outer rosettes. 
• Native to eastern North America.