Wild Pink is a low-growing native wildflower that belongs to the carnation family and thrives in hardiness zones 5 through 8. This botanical variety, scientifically Silene caroliniana var. wherryi 'Short and Sweet', produces loose clusters of rose-pink flowers with five spreading wedge-shaped petals that emerge in mid to late spring, typically from April through June. Growing just 6 to 9 inches tall and spreading 12 to 18 inches wide, it forms a charming mounded shape that resembles woodland phlox and serves as an important early-season nectar source for butterflies. The sticky flowering stems rise from tufts of narrow, lance-shaped basal leaves, creating a structure that adapts beautifully to naturalized plantings in sunny or partially shaded spots.
Partial Sun
Moderate
5-8
9in H x 18in W
—
High
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Rose-pink flowers with distinctive wedge-shaped petals appear in loose clusters atop sticky stems during mid to late spring, making this native wildflower an essential early nectar source for butterflies. It tolerates drought and thrives in poor, sandy, or gravelly soils once established, asking only for excellent drainage and occasional sunshine to thrive. The compact mounding habit and narrow basal leaves give it a refined, natural appearance that fits seamlessly into rock gardens and naturalized settings without requiring regular fussing.
Wild Pink is best used in naturalized plantings where its low mounding form and early-spring blooms can anchor pollinator gardens. Its drought tolerance and preference for poor, dry soils make it valuable in rock gardens, alpine troughs, and other settings where most perennials struggle. Early gardeners and native plant enthusiasts appreciate it as a reliable, undemanding wildflower for supporting butterfly populations in spring when few other nectar sources are available.
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