Fire Pink
silene virginica
Also known as: ["Wild Pink","Scarlet Catchfly"]
Overview
A perennial wildflower native to eastern North America, known for its brilliant red, star-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Silene |
| Botanical Name: | Silene virginica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging; avoid heavy clay soils.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate slightly rocky or sandy soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; occasional shaping as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; amend with organic matter before planting; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoids extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding during dormancy; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing but not in full bloom.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth typically appears within 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity initially; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node; remove any damaged or diseased growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors; gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and blooming.
Checklist
Choose a pot with drainage; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in a shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain freely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter dormancy; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or dormancy in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold can lead to root damage or dormancy.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may become stunted.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for dilution rates; apply during active growth; avoid contact with foliage; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during spring and summer; avoid feeding in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Silene virginica. The saponins in the plant can cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Silene virginica can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. While not typically dangerous, it can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSilene virginica contains saponins and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Silene virginica attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
Q: Is Fire Pink suitable for shade gardens?
A: It prefers full sun to partial shade and may struggle in deep shade.
Q: How often should I water Fire Pink?
A: Water sparingly; it is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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