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Royal Catchfly: An Introduction (Silene regia)
Before we jump into this article, I wanted to mention that I just finished an interview at the UW Arboretum for the newsletter. I’m putting some finishing touches on it and it will likely come out next week. It was an insightful discussion and I am excited to share it with you, dear reader! I’ve also purchased a domain so the-plotnewsletter.com will now take you to the archive of articles. This week, I want to introduce you to the Royal Catchfly, which is a poster child of a native plant species.
Consider: A bright scarlet summoner of hummingbirds. This plant feeds wildlife and adds some drama to a sea of green in late summer.
The Latin name of this plant Silene refers to the sticky stems and references a drunken old satyr Silenus who was a companion of Dionysis in Greek mythology. This describes most of the patrons of the average dive bar in Wisconsin. While regia references its regal nature, due to the beautiful red flowers.
I’ve definitely seen this guy at happy hour in Busses Tavern before.
Need to Know
Type: Long-lived perennial
Height/Spread: 2–4 ft tall, 1–2 ft wide
Bloom: Fiery red, July–September (peak mid–late summer)
Note: “Catchfly” refers to sticky stems that trap tiny insects. It’s not carnivorous; it just happens to be sticky.
Native range (U.S.)
Primarily the Midwest and Ohio Valley into the lower Midwest/Southeast with pockets in AR, AL, GA, and MS. In the wild you’ll find it on prairie edges, open wood margins, rocky glades, and roadsides with sharp drainage.
Preferred conditions:
Sun: Full sun is best; light afternoon shade is fine in hotter microclimates.
Soil: Well-drained—gravelly/loamy/clayey is all fine if water doesn’t sit.
Moisture: Dry-to-medium. Water to establish; after that, go easy.
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral.
Spacing: 18–24" for good airflow.
Longevity tip: Take it easy on fertilizers and keep it in well draining soil.
Wildlife value:
Hummingbirds: Ruby-throated Hummingbirds adore these red tubular flowers.
Butterflies & moths: Larger butterflies will nectar; nocturnal visitors arrive at dusk.
Other: Sticky stems incidentally trap tiny gnats, but not in a carnivorous way.
Royal Catchfly is a striking native plant and a bit of a poster child. Plant it where you want to welcome hummingbirds and sit back to enjoy the show. Keep it in a well draining area or slope if you want to enjoy it for years to come. It is one of those plants that can stop a neighbor to strike up a conversation about your garden.
This Weekend in the Midwest Garden
Collect Native Seeds: If you are anything like me — you are gardening on a budget. Plants are expensive, so now is a good time to collect and save some native seeds from Purple Coneflower, Black Eyed Susan, and Liatris.
Host a Grill out: It’s supposed to be perfect weather here in Madison. What a good weekend to enjoy the height of your Summer blooms with friends!
Document: It’s easy to get carried away with work. Don’t forget to take pictures of your space, you’ll look back in awe in just a few years at what the space used to be. Reply to this email with a photo of your garden space! I’d love to see it.
Plot Notes
The city of Madison is picking up tree brush Sunday, and I just removed so many invasive trees and shrubs from The Plot. Apparently tree removal is an activity that increases testosterone levels. Cue my plaid shirt and beard.
This is just half of the invasive trees we removed today.
My Allium catches backlight as the sun starts to set. Behind it is Ninebark ‘Ginger Wine’.
First progress photo of my water lilies! My friend is working on his guest article to teach you more about cultivating these beauties.
What I Loved This Week
Read: I’m currently re-reading the Illustrated History of Landscape Design. Buy it used if you don’t mind some highlighting. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone that is interested in landscape design, as it will deepen your understanding of design movements from Stonehenge to Central Park.
Watch: How Hawaiian Rebels are Rebuilding an Ancient Food Paradise
Connect: I met T.L. Luke at the Magic Pride event last weekend in Warner Park, Madison. They have some really neat illustrations of native plants now adorning my notebook.
Reader Feature:
Jess of Burda Growing Better sent over these photos of their garden! They are a Midwest gardener and garden coach. These raised beds are called Vego beds. Consider submitting your own photos so I can share with the class!
These Nasturtiums are calling my name. The flowers brighten up any salad and add a peppery taste.
Looks like a bountiful plot. Thanks for sharing!
Written for 27 beautiful readers. 💌
Until next Thursday,
Ken Welch
Ken Welch is a horticulturist and research professional at UW–Madison. He’s drawn to native ecosystems, community gardens, and helping others grow confidence in their craft.
There was a short time when my native plants were Californian, but don’t worry, your author is Midwest born and raised.
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