Night-flowering Catchfly
Silene noctiflora
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
DE
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Night-flowering catchfly is a modest annual wildflower that grows 12-24 inches tall with small white or pink flowers that open in the evening. It blooms from July through September and prefers partial shade with moderate watering. As an annual, it completes its life cycle in one growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Night-flowering Catchfly takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Annual nature means gaps and bare spots
- Can appear weedy and unkempt
- Night-blooming habit means flowers often closed during day
Wildlife value
This plant provides nectar for bees and beetles, particularly benefiting nocturnal pollinators due to its evening blooming habit. The flowers are specially adapted to attract nighttime visitors.
Common questions
- How much sun does Night-flowering Catchfly need?
- Night-flowering Catchfly grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Night-flowering Catchfly bloom?
- Night-flowering Catchfly blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Night-flowering Catchfly native?
- Night-flowering Catchfly (Silene noctiflora) is native to DE, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Night-flowering Catchfly attract?
- Night-flowering Catchfly draws bees and beetles.
- Is Night-flowering Catchfly HOA-friendly?
- Night-flowering Catchfly takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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 Night-flowering Catchfly? 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