Silene armeria: Sweet William Catchfly for Vivid Pink Summer Blooms

Sweet William Catchfly (Silene armeria) is a herbaceous perennial often grown as an annual, native to Europe but naturalized across North America. It produces vivid dark pink flower clusters in late summer on plants 1–3 feet tall and 6–12 inches wide. This self-sowing beauty thrives in full sun to part shade with dry to medium, well-drained, preferably sandy or gravelly soil. It dislikes hot, humid summers.

Growing Conditions

Provide full sun to part shade and dry to medium, well-drained soil. Self-sows readily; sow seeds in spring or summer where they are to grow. Generally problem-free.

Key Features at a Glance

• Height: 1–3 ft.
• Spread: 6–12 in.
• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Moisture: Dry to Medium
• Maintenance: Low
• Characteristics: Self-Seeds, Showy Flowers
• Bloom Time: Late Summer
• Flower Color: Pink
• Uses: Beds, Borders, Annual, Cottage Garden
• Type: Perennials (grown as annual)