Species Indian pink
red-yellow flowers with green leaves and green-yellow stems

Indian pink

Spigelia marilandica 'Little Redhead'

Indian pink (Spigelia marilandica 'Little Redhead') is an easy-to-care-for perennial wildflower native to the eastern United States. It enjoys full sun to partial shade, and prefers an evenly moist environment. This small shrub is adorned with fluffy yellow-green foliage and gorgeous red and yellow flowers in the shape of stars. Growing up to 2 feet tall, this show-stopper is sure to draw the eye in any garden. Blooming from July to October, it can take many pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Indian pink may require division and re-potting every 2-3 years, but it is worth the effort for this unique and stunning wildflower.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Red with yellow interior Flowers In Summer

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Indian pink is an annual or short-lived perennial that prefers humid climates and regular moisture. It should be watered every 2-3 days during hot months and every 5-7 days during cool months. To prevent root rot, ensure that soil is well-draining and never allow roots to sit in water. Water enough to keep the soil moist at a depth of 2-3 inches.

sunlight

Indian pink (Spigelia marilandica 'Little Redhead') typically grows best in part shade, with 3-4 hours of direct sunlight per day. The plant prefers bright shade rather than darker, because direct sunlight can cause its foliage to burn. It should not be placed in an area where it will receive harsh, direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day. For optimal growth, it is best to place in a spot in the garden where it will receive shade in the morning followed by filtered dappled sunlight for the remainder of the day.

pruning

Indian pink can be pruned in late winter or early spring for best results. Pruning should include removal of any dead or diseased branches, as well as maintaining desired shape and size. You can also remove crossing branches, shoots that are growing inwards, and suckers growing from the base. Early spring pruning should remove no more than 1-third to 1-half of the plant's top. Late winter pruning should remove no more than a maximum of 1-third of the total branches. Be careful with pruning, to ensure you do not unintentionally remove any flower buds.

Season

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

Indian pink typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Indian pink typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map