Sleepy Catchfly
Silene antirrhina
Last reviewed: June 2026

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
Browse plants for this ecoregion
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