ROYAL CATCHFLY
Silene regia
Royal Catchfly is an endangered perennial with sticky-hairy stems and bright red flowers in an open cluster at the top of the stem. Though found across the southeast and midwest, it is very rare throughout its range. There is only one population known in Georgia, in Dade County, and it is not protected on public land.
Found in limestone cedar glades, rocky, sunny openings in woodlands, Royal Catchfly finds its habitat threatened by clearing and conversion to pine plantations, pasture and development. This plant is designed to benefit from wildfires and fire suppression and the resulting encroachment by woody species is limiting growth. The flowers are pollinated by hummingbirds.
The State Botanical Garden of Georgia Mimsie Lanier Center for Native Plant Studies is growing this plant and working to ensure its survival. Find out more about what is happening at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia to Preserve Georgia’s Imperiled Native Species and how you can help.