Silene virginica, commonly known as Fire Pink, is a native perennial wildflower found in open woodlands, rocky slopes, and forest edges throughout southern Illinois. It prefers well-drained, sandy or rocky soils and grows best in partial shade, especially in areas with filtered light and minimal competition.
This striking plant typically grows 0.5 to 2 feet tall and features lance-shaped, opposite leaves covered in fine hairs. In spring to early summer, it produces brilliant scarlet-red, star-shaped flowers with deeply notched petals. The vivid color and tubular shape of the blooms are especially attractive to hummingbirds, which are its primary pollinators.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Silene virginica is a beautiful and valuable addition to woodland borders, rock gardens, and shaded native plantings. Its vivid blooms offer early-season color and support for pollinators, and it pairs well with companions like Wild Columbine, Woodland Phlox, and Wild Geranium. Due to its specific soil and light preferences, it thrives best in well-drained, lightly shaded natural settings or carefully managed garden environments.
Silene virginica, commonly known as Fire Pink, is a native perennial wildflower found in open woodlands, rocky slopes, and forest edges throughout southern Illinois. It prefers well-drained, sandy or rocky soils and grows best in partial shade, especially in areas with filtered light and minimal competition.
This striking plant typically grows 0.5 to 2 feet tall and features lance-shaped, opposite leaves covered in fine hairs. In spring to early summer, it produces brilliant scarlet-red, star-shaped flowers with deeply notched petals. The vivid color and tubular shape of the blooms are especially attractive to hummingbirds, which are its primary pollinators.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Silene virginica is a beautiful and valuable addition to woodland borders, rock gardens, and shaded native plantings. Its vivid blooms offer early-season color and support for pollinators, and it pairs well with companions like Wild Columbine, Woodland Phlox, and Wild Geranium. Due to its specific soil and light preferences, it thrives best in well-drained, lightly shaded natural settings or carefully managed garden environments.
Bloom: late spring to mid-summer
Habitats: clay banks along trails in wooded areas; limestone and sandstone cliffs; openings in upland woodlands; rocky wooded slopes; thinly wooded bluffs
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: mesic to dry
Plant type (height): forb (0.5 to 2 feet)
Requirements: partial sun
Soil: rather poor soil containing too much clay, rocky material, or sand
