Native Flower
Scarlet Catchfly is a red star-shaped native flower. Their bright red flowers blooming on rocky pine needle-covered hills bring a smile to my face as soon as they start blooming every year. They grow in eastern North America as far north as Canada and all the way down to Florida. In the Northwest Arkansas area, the Scarlet Catchfly generally begins blooming as soon as April and can last until almost July.
Scarlet Catchfly
Growing up to 2 feet tall the sticky stalk of the Catchfly topped with its bright red petals with heads measuring from 1”-1 ½ “ stand out in stark contrast against the rocky wooded backdrop of its chosen habitat. The colorful notched petals are very attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies making a wonderful addition to any yard or garden. The slightly hairy and sticky stalk that prey on smaller insects gives the Silene Virginica its common name of catchfly. It loves rocky well-drained soil and can often be found on rocky outcroppings and shaded hillsides.
Endangered Native Pollinator Plant
Silene Virginica is very hardy and easy to grow. Its ability to attract its own pollinators is an asset. Drop its own seeds keeps it reproducing every year. As long as the area it grows in is not disturbed.
Unfortunately, in some places like Florida and Wisconsin, it is becoming endangered. Michigan has the Silene Virginica on its threatened list. Lucky for us in NWA this beautiful wildflower flower is not on any endangered list. Let’s help keep the Scarlet Catchfly off endangered lists in Northwest Arkansas and the Ozark area. So that future generations can enjoy this bright-colored native flower. For butterflies and hummingbirds to dine on for many years to come.
For more Native NWA and Ozarks plants. Or plants that are not indigenous. But have been in the area for a long time and provide habitats and help maintain a strong ecosystem. You may want to visit our NWA Natives category.