perennial

Short and Sweet Wild Pinks

Silene caroliniana 'Short Sweet'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

6 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers well-drained, dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Silene caroliniana is a low-growing, mound-forming perennial native to eastern and central US. It forms a basal rosette of semi-evergreen, lance-shaped leaves and is prized for its spring floral display. The 'Short and Sweet' cultivar is a compact selection noted for its profusion of vibrant, notched, magenta-pink flowers that completely cover the foliage mound in mid to late spring.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Adds vibrant pink color to sunny borders, attracting beneficial insects.

Drought tolerant, reducing watering needs.

Supports local pollinators and insect biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds just beneath soil surface in spring or fall
Keep soil moist until germination, about 2 weeks
Transplant seedlings after 4–6 weeks into full sun
Water regularly during first growing season
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Divide clumps every 3 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly once established 💧
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage rebloom
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Mulch around base to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
Avoid heavy clay soils without amendment
Don't fertilize late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Pink-flowered borderDrought-tolerant garden bed

Companion Plants

Lavender Coreopsis Salvia Sedum Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Short and Sweet Wild Pinks questions

What zones can Short and Sweet Wild Pinks grow in?

Short and Sweet Wild Pinks 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 Short and Sweet Wild Pinks deer resistant?

Yes — Short and Sweet Wild Pinks is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Short and Sweet Wild Pinks bloom?

Short and Sweet Wild Pinks typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Short and Sweet Wild Pinks need full sun?

Short and Sweet Wild Pinks does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Short and Sweet Wild Pinks drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Short and Sweet Wild Pinks handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.