SILENE armeria (Catchfly)
SILENE armeria (Catchfly) is a charming perennial plant native to Europe. It belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family and is treasured for its clusters of colorful, star-shaped flowers and its attractive foliage. Catchfly is often grown in cottage gardens, rockeries, or as a cut flower due to its beauty and ease of cultivation.
Catchfly is a compact, clump-forming plant that typically reaches a height of 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) and spreads about 12 inches (30 cm). It has slender stems with lance-shaped, gray-green leaves. The foliage is evergreen or semi-evergreen, providing interest even when the plant is not in bloom.
This species thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. Catchfly is adaptable to various soil types, including sandy or loamy soils. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
The flowers of Silene armeria are the main attraction. They are small and star-shaped, featuring five petals that are usually pink or white. The flowers are borne in clusters at the top of the stems and have a slight fragrance. They are attractive to bees and butterflies, serving as a valuable nectar source.
Catchfly typically blooms from late spring to early summer, with the flowering period lasting for several weeks. Deadheading spent flowers can help promote continuous blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.
Catchfly is often used in cottage gardens, rock gardens, or as a cut flower. It works well as a border plant, in mixed perennial beds, or as a filler between other taller plants. Its colorful flowers and compact growth habit make it a delightful addition to the garden.
Catchfly, with its clusters of colorful, star-shaped flowers and attractive foliage, brings a touch of beauty and elegance to gardens and landscapes. Its adaptability, low-maintenance nature, and attractiveness to pollinators make it a desirable choice for adding color and charm to outdoor spaces.
Number of Seeds | Max Coverage Area (Square Ft.) | |
---|---|---|
1OZ | 218,750 | 2,000 |
1/4LB | 875,000 | 8,000 |
1/2LB | 1,750,000 | 16,000 |
1LB | 3,500,000 | 32,000 |
5LB | 17,500,000 | 160,000 |
Scientific Name: Silene Armeria
Common Name: Catchfly
Plant Type: Annual, Biennial
Family: Silene- Campions
Zone: 5 to 8
Native Range: Europe
Full Growth Height: 16-22"
Width in Across: 6-9"
Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Sun
Blooming Season: Summer (Mid, Late)
Flower Characteristics: Showy
Pollinators: Butterflies, Humming Birds
Flower Color: Bright Pink
Tolerate: Drought, Dry Soil
Water Requirement: Dry
Maintenance: Low
Soil Type: Chalk, Sand, Loam, Well-Drained
Soil pH: Neutral, Alkaline
Uses: Banks and Slopes, Gravel and Rock Gardens, Prairies and Meadows