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Sleepy Catchfly

Silene antirrhina

Last reviewed: June 2026

Sleepy Catchfly (Silene antirrhina)
Photo: (c) Aaron Carlson, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Aaron Carlson

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–24" H × 2"–8" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Sleepy catchfly is a delicate annual wildflower with small pink or white flowers that bloom from late spring through summer. This compact native plant has a slender, upright growth habit and thrives in sunny, dry locations with minimal care.

In an HOA neighborhood

Sleepy Catchfly takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Very small flowers may appear weedy to neighbors
  • Annual lifecycle creates gaps when plants die
  • Informal wildflower appearance conflicts with manicured landscapes

Wildlife value

The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during its long blooming season from May through August.

Common questions

How much sun does Sleepy Catchfly need?
Sleepy Catchfly grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Sleepy Catchfly bloom?
Sleepy Catchfly blooms in May, June, July, and August.
Where is Sleepy Catchfly native?
Sleepy Catchfly (Silene antirrhina) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Sleepy Catchfly attract?
Sleepy Catchfly draws bees and beetles.
Is Sleepy Catchfly HOA-friendly?
Sleepy 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 Sleepy 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