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Night-flowering Catchfly

Silene noctiflora

Last reviewed: June 2026

Night-flowering Catchfly (Silene noctiflora)
Photo: Johann Georg Sturm (Painter: Jacob Sturm) / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

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.

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.

Does Night-flowering Catchfly fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.