Sticky catchfly (Silene caroliniana)

Also known as: Carolina campion, Pennsylvania catchfly, Pennsylvania pink, Carolina pink

The sticky catchfly is known for its sticky sap that traps insects. This wildflower thrives in grasslands and meadows, blooming in late spring and early summer. Its pinkish-white flowers attract both butterflies and bees.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Sticky catchfly

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10 cm to 30 cm

Spread

10 cm to 30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Color

Pink

Images of Sticky catchfly

Quickly Identify Sticky catchfly

Basal foliage forms a mat-like mound, semi-evergreen, with lance-shaped leaves, 1-4.5 inches (2.5-11.5 cm) long.

Clusters of vibrant, rosy-pink tubular flowers with five distinct wedge-shaped petals.

Fruit capsule with seeds, 0.31-0.39 inches (8-10 mm) long, opening with 6-8 protruding teeth.

Sticky, green stem, 3-5 inches (7.5-12.7 cm) tall, softly hairy, ascending and sparsely branched.

Distinct floral blooming from April to May, loose clusters of rose-pink tubular blooms.

Scientific Classification of Sticky catchfly

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Caryophyllales

Family

Pink

Genus

Campions

Species

Sticky catchfly

Planting and Growing of Sticky catchfly

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Sticky catchfly?

Silene caroliniana prefers moderate watering. Ensure the soil is moist but not soggy, watering approximately 200ml to maintain the right balance. The soil should feel damp to touch but not waterlogged, promoting healthy root development.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Sticky catchfly? ›

What should I do if my Sticky catchfly is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Sticky catchfly? ›

How to save an overwatered Sticky catchfly? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Sticky catchfly?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Full sun to partial sun is ideal, offering comprehensive benefits including optimal blooming conditions and robust growth. It also supports metabolic functions, ensuring the plant remains healthy and vibrant.

How much sunlight does Silene caroliniana need? ›

How can you ensure Silene caroliniana receives ideal sunlight? ›

What are the benefits of ideal sunlight for Silene caroliniana? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Sticky catchfly?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Silene caroliniana cultivation is between 65°F and 75°F. In this range, the plant achieves optimal metabolic and photosynthetic activity, promoting healthy growth and flowering. Maintaining consistent temperatures within this band enhances nutrient uptake and reduces the risk of temperature-induced stress.

What Soil is Best for Sticky catchfly?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Silene caroliniana thrives in well-draining soil as it helps prevent root rot by allowing excess water to flow away quickly. This ensures the roots receive adequate oxygen and reduces the risk of fungal infections, promoting healthy growth. A soil that is moderately rich in nutrients supports the robust growth of Silene caroliniana. It ensures that the plant receives essential macro and micronutrients without overwhelming it, facilitating steady development and vibrant blooms. This plant prefers a slightly alkaline to neutral pH level, which encourages optimal nutrient absorption and enhances healthy root development. Maintaining this pH reduces the risk of nutrient lockout, which can hinder growth.

How to Fertilize Sticky catchfly?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Silene caroliniana, use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. For liquid fertilizers, apply it as a dilute solution, mixing half a capful with a gallon of water. With granular fertilizers, use no more than 1 tablespoon per square foot around the base of the plant.

How to Prune Sticky catchfly?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by visually assessing the plant, looking for any dead or damaged stems, which are prime candidates for removal to foster new growth. Trim back the stems by up to one-third to maintain a neat, bushy appearance. This helps open the plant to better light and air circulation. Focus on cutting just above a node or a leaf junction. This encourages branching at these points, enhancing the plant's appearance and bloom potential. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Sticky catchfly plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Start by filling a seed tray with a fine-quality potting mix. Sow the seeds on the surface and lightly cover them with compost. Place the tray in a warm, bright area and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Select healthy stems and trim 4-6 inches from the tip. Remove leaves from the lower half and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant in a pot with a mix of sand and peat, ensuring constant humidity.

Dig up an established Silene caroliniana plant, separating the root clumps carefully with a sterile knife or your hands. Replant each clump at the original depth and water well to encourage settling and growth.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Sticky catchfly plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot Silene caroliniana in spring when you notice signs like roots protruding from drainage holes, slower growth, or compacted soil. These indicators suggest that the plant has outgrown its current container or needs fresh soil to thrive.

Select a pot that's one size larger than the current one, with good drainage holes. This will provide adequate space for root expansion and prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A pot made of breathable material like terracotta can also help ensure proper aeration for the roots.

Choose a well-draining potting mix that's rich in organic matter. This will not only provide the essential nutrients but will also help the plant avoid waterlogged conditions, promoting healthy growth. A loamy soil mix with a combination of sand, peat, and perlite works well.