royal catchfly
Silene regia
USDA zones4 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial shade
WaterHandles dry to moderate soil
Size3 to 4 feet tall18 to 24 inches wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Scarlet
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, chalk
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Royal catchfly (Silene regia) is a perennial for borders, meadows, and low maintenance gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full sun to part shade and dry to average, sandy, loamy, or chalky soil. Bright red, tubular flowers flare into five slender petals and can reach 2 inches across. The red blooms attract hummingbirds and butterflies, and the plant tolerates drought.
Pairs well with Buffalo grass, Lupine, and Jersey tea.
Native range
Central and southern United States.