Silene laciniata (Cardinal Catchfly)

Bright red like the plumage of a cardinal, Silene laciniata (Cardinal Catchfly) is a showy clump-forming perennial boasting brilliant clusters of star-shaped flowers from late spring to mid-summer. Small but eye-catching, each flower, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), features five thin petals deeply divided into 4-6 lobes. Rich in pollen, they attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The blossoms are borne in loose clusters at the top of upright sticky stems bearing linear to lance-shaped, opposite leaves. The leaves are densely covered with sticky hairs. Native to the southwestern United States, Cardinal Catchfly occurs naturally in pine forests, grassy or brushy slopes, ridges, meadows, and roadsides. Cardinal Catchfly likes to lean against other vegetation. It is an excellent showy plant for a shaded rock garden and a great addition to wildflower gardens, native plant gardens, woodland gardens, or cottage gardens.

• Grows up to 24 in. tall (60 cm) and 36 in. wide (36 cm).
• Thrives in part shade in moderately fertile, neutral to alkaline, well-drained soils. Excellent drainage is essential and gravelly soils 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.
• Pest and disease-free and low maintenance, this eye-catching beauty is also deer resistant.
• The stems can be cut back just after flowering to encourage new growth later. 
• Propagate by seed (no treatment), cuttings, and root cuttings.
• Native to the southwestern United States from California to Texas, as well as northern Mexico.