Contents
Description
Silene Virginica, commonly known as Fire Pink, is a native wildflower of North America. This perennial plant belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family and is prized for its bright red flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus | Silene |
Appearance
The Fire Pink plant has lance-shaped leaves that grow in a basal rosette. The stem is slender, hairy, and can grow up to 2 feet tall. The flowers are 1-2 inches wide with five petals that are bright red and deeply notched. The stamens are also bright red, and the pistil is green. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer and can be found in rocky or wooded areas.
Care Guide
Fire Pink is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of soil conditions. It prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant requires moderate watering and should not be allowed to dry out completely. Fertilization is not necessary but can be done once in early spring. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fire Pink is generally free from pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Aphids and spider mites can sometimes attack the plant, causing yellowing and distortion of the leaves. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Fire Pink is native to the eastern United States and can be found growing in rocky or wooded areas, along roadsides, and in meadows. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Fire Pink be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Fire Pink can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: Can Fire Pink be propagated by cuttings?
A: No, Fire Pink is best propagated by seed.
Q: Is Fire Pink deer-resistant?
A: No, Fire Pink is not deer-resistant and may be eaten by deer.
Q: Can Fire Pink be used for medicinal purposes?
A: No, Fire Pink is not known to have any medicinal properties.
Related Plants
- Silene Armeria
- Silene Capensis
- Silene Dioica
- Silene Fimbriata
References
- “Silene virginica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b136
- “Fire Pink (Silene virginica).” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed May 2021. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/savanna/plants/fire_pink.html
- “Silene virginica.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed May 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SIVI
