Wild Pink
Silene caroliniana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Silene caroliniana (Wild Pink) is a native forb blooming pink flowers from April to June across eastern and central states. This drought-tolerant wildflower attracts bees, butterflies, and moths to gardens and natural areas.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
6"–12" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AL, CT, DE, GA and 16 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Wild pink is a low-growing native perennial that forms neat clumps of narrow leaves topped with clusters of bright pink flowers in spring and early summer. This compact plant stays tidy at 6-12 inches tall and wide, making it suitable for rock gardens, borders, and mixed plantings. It thrives in partial sun with minimal watering once established.
Growing Wild Pink
Grow Wild Pink in part sun and low water. Mature plants reach 6 to 12 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
Wild Pink is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The pink flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and moths during its April through June bloom period. This native plant provides important early season nectar when many other flowers are not yet blooming.
Common questions
- When does Wild Pink bloom?
- Silene caroliniana blooms from April through June, producing clusters of pink flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Wild Pink?
- Wild Pink attracts bees, butterflies, and moths with its fragrant pink flowers during the spring and early summer blooming period.
- Where is Silene caroliniana native?
- Wild Pink is native to 21 states across eastern and central North America, from New Hampshire south to Georgia and west to Kansas and Missouri.
- What growing conditions does Wild Pink prefer?
- Silene caroliniana thrives in well-drained soils with low to moderate water needs and tolerates full sun to partial shade conditions.
- Is Wild Pink HOA-friendly?
- Wild 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 Wild 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