Fire-pink
Silene virginica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Silene virginica (Fire-pink) is a native wildflower producing brilliant red tubular blooms from May through July across eastern and central United States. This striking perennial attracts hummingbirds and butterflies to woodland edges and rocky slopes.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, DE, GA and 19 more states
Pollinators
hummingbirds, butterflies, bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Fire-pink produces brilliant scarlet star-shaped flowers on slender stems from late spring through summer. This compact native wildflower forms neat clumps with narrow green leaves and thrives in sunny, well-drained locations.
Growing Fire-pink
Grow Fire-pink in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fire-pink is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The bright red tubular flowers are specifically adapted to attract hummingbirds, while also providing nectar for butterflies and native bees.
Common questions
- When does Fire-pink bloom?
- Fire-pink blooms from May through July, producing distinctive bright red tubular flowers that are especially attractive to hummingbirds.
- What pollinators visit Fire-pink?
- Fire-pink attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. The bright red tubular flowers are particularly well-adapted for hummingbird pollination.
- Where is Fire-pink native?
- Fire-pink is native to much of the eastern and central United States, including states from New York south to Georgia and west to Kansas and Iowa.
- What growing conditions does Fire-pink prefer?
- Fire-pink grows best in full sun to partial sun with medium to low water conditions. It typically thrives in well-drained soils on rocky slopes and woodland edges.
- Is Fire-pink HOA-friendly?
- Fire-pink is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Fire-pink? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz