Catchfly

Silene armeria, commonly known as Catchfly or Sweet William Catchfly, is a charming annual or short-lived perennial flower belonging to the Caryophyllaceae family, which also includes carnations and dianthus. Native to southern Europe, this plant has naturalized in parts of North America and is prized for its vibrant, bright pink blooms that create striking displays in garden borders, beds, and wildflower meadows.

Catchfly is adaptable and easy to grow, thriving in full sun to partial shade and tolerating a wide range of soil types, provided the soil is well-drained. It is especially useful for cottage gardens, pollinator gardens, or naturalized settings, where it can add bold color with minimal maintenance.

The name “Catchfly” comes from the sticky sap produced on the plant’s stems, which can trap small insects. However, this sticky substance is not used to attract or feed on flies; rather, it serves as a natural defense mechanism against pests. Despite the name, Catchfly does not function as a carnivorous plant.

This flower is suitable for fall planting in USDA zones 7 through 10, where it can establish over the winter and bloom in the following spring or early summer. In cooler climates, it is typically sown in spring after the last frost.

With its compact growth habit and intense color, Silene armeria makes an excellent choice for borders, containers, or mass plantings, and also works well as a cut flower. Its nectar-rich blooms are known to attract butterflies and bees, making it a beneficial addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.

The broadcast rate for seeding is 2 – 2.5 pounds per acre.

The seed drill rate for seeding in rows is 1 pounds per acre.