Species fire pink

fire pink

Silene virginica

Fire pink (Silene virginica) is a wildflower native to North America. It stands 8-15 inches tall and has delicate pink petals that blooms in early summer and fall. The fiery-red flowers of this species stand out brilliantly against its green foliage of lance-shaped leaves. It prefers moist soil and full sun, making it an ideal choice for summer borders and meadows. Its striking flowers are a native pollinator's favorite and can feed bees, hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators. Fire pink's long-lasting blooms can be enjoyed in the garden for months.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Red Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

Water Fire Pinks about twice a week during the summer months when the soil is dry. About 1 inch of water is sufficient each time you water. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. During the winter months, reduce watering to once a week or less depending on rainfall and temperatures. Do not overwater during winter as Fire Pinks are dormant and require much less moisture.

sunlight

Fire pink (Silene virginica) thrives best in full sun, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. This plant will grow in partial sun but will likely not flower as profusely. If possible, ensure that the sun is shining on the fire pink during the morning hours as this is when the plant most benefits from the light and heat. This will also help it flower better throughout the summer.

pruning

Pruning of Fire pinks should be done in late autumn or early spring, when they are dormant. Pruning should be done to remove dead, diseased, and dying stems and leaves to keep the plant healthy and to promote new growth. Generally, it is best to cut the stems back by 1-third of their length, as this encourages the plants to bush out more. Any remaining dead leaves and stems should be gently removed, either by hand or with a pair of pruning shears. Pruning should not be done too heavily, as this can reduce flower production.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Fire pink typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map