Fire Pink (Silene virginica)
Growing at the base of a shaded ridge at the edge of a dense mixed hardwood/coniferous forest in NW Georgia (Gordon County), US.
Fire Pinks (also known as Scarlet Catchflies), are colorful wildflowers within the Carnation family. The common name refers to the notched shape at the end of its petals. Interestingly, S. virginica also has a slightly pubescent and sticky stalk which may trap insects (thus the latter common name).
Silene virginica populations are, unfortunately, dropping. It is considered threatened in Michigan and near endangered in Florida and Wisconsin.
''Silene virginica'', the fire pink, is a wildflower in the pink family, Caryophyllaceae. It is known for its distinct brilliant red flowers. Each flower is approximately five centimeters in diameter and composed of five notched, brilliant red petals which extend into a long tube. It is a small , short-lived perennial , with lance shaped leaves. Its stems, and the bases of the flowers, are covered in short sticky hairs.
