Species

perennial

Prairie Fire Royal Catchfly

The Story

Plant Bio

Silene regia, commonly known as Royal Catchfly, is an upright perennial featuring brilliant scarlet-red, star-shaped flowers in summer. Its lance-shaped, green leaves are arranged oppositely on the stem.

Notable for its intensely colored red flowers, which are a magnet for hummingbirds and butterflies. It is one of the few true red native wildflowers in its range.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright fiery red flowers create a stunning visual impact in sunny borders and rock gardens.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise gardens.

Provides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesSilene regiaRoyal Catchfly

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Central and Eastern United States

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late fall

In flower about 5 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring.
Water gently to keep soil moist during germination.
Place in full sun for optimal flowering.
Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart after emergence.
Fertilize lightly with balanced fertilizer in spring.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage rebloom.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly once established 🌱
Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
Avoid heavy fertilization with high nitrogen
Do not disturb roots during dormancy

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Propagate
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fiery border accentDrought-tolerant garden bedWildflower meadow

Companion Plants

Lavender Coreopsis EchinaceaYarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Prairie Fire Royal Catchfly questions

What zones can Prairie Fire Royal Catchfly grow in?

Prairie Fire Royal Catchfly is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Prairie Fire Royal Catchfly deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Prairie Fire Royal Catchfly, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Prairie Fire Royal Catchfly bloom?

Prairie Fire Royal Catchfly typically blooms in mid-summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Prairie Fire Royal Catchfly need full sun?

Prairie Fire Royal Catchfly does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Prairie Fire Royal Catchfly drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Prairie Fire Royal Catchfly handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.