Summary
The striking flowers of royal catchfly (Silene regia) act as beacons for hungry hummingbirds. This clumping perennial typically grows 3-4′ tall, with erect, slender stems and serrated leaves. Clusters of red blooms open in summer and transform into brown, brittle seedpods in the fall. Excellent drainage is a must-have for this plant to thrive. Royal catchfly prefers sandy or gravelly soils in full to part sun. Companions for this drought-tolerant plant include black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida ), October Skies aromatic aster (Symphyotrichum oblongifolium ‘October Skies’), Northern wild senna (Senna hebecarpa), and early goldenrod (Solidago juncea). Zones 5-8.
More Details
- Plant Type
perennial - Sun/Shade Conditions
full-sun-to-partial-shade - Foliage Character
deciduous - Soil Moisture
dry-to-average - Flowering Period
mid-to-late-summer - Soil PH
neutral - Flower Color
red - Summer Foliage Color
green - Fall Foliage Color
green - Fruit/Seed Color
greenish-brown-brown
Additional Information
Missouri Botanical Garden, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Illinois Wildflowers