This is a native plant, but it is not available in the 2026 Wild Ones plant sale.
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Royal Catchfly
Silene regia
PerennialRoyal Catchfly
Silene regia
Tap to flip backGrowing Conditions
Light
Sun – Part Shade
Water
Dry – Medium
Soil
Sandy
Size
2-4'
Bloom
Red, Jun–Aug
Why Grow It
Deer Resistant
Great for gardens without fencing
Drought Tolerant
Thrives with little water once established
Did You Know?
The sticky stem hairs trap small insects — earning the name 'Catchfly' — but the plant is not carnivorous; it's just a defense against nectar thieves.
Royal Catchfly is endangered in several states due to prairie habitat loss, but it is surprisingly easy to grow in gardens with good drainage.
The brilliant red flowers are specifically adapted for hummingbird pollination — the tubular shape and color are invisible to most insects.
Wildlife Value
🐦
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Primary pollinator drawn to bright red flowers
🦋
Swallowtail Butterflies
Visit tubular flowers for nectar
🐝
Hawk Moths
Night-visiting pollinators of red blooms
Good Companions
🌾 Little Bluestem
🌼 Wild Petunia
💙 Smooth Blue Aster
🌸 Hoary Vervain
Planting Guide
- Plant in full sun in dry to average well-drained soil.
- Space 12-18 inches apart; protect from heavy competition.
- Avoid overwatering; thrives in lean, rocky conditions.
Plant Details
Made with ♥ by Lu Li