Silene laciniata ssp. laciniata

Cardinal Catchfly (Silene laciniata ssp. laciniata) is a native perennial herb that grows in northern, southern and central California at elevations from 0-3900 feet. Silene laciniata ssp. californica is found primarily in the northern part of the state and the Sierra foothills. Ssp. laciniata is primarily found along the central to southern coast. It forms a thick taproot from which an upright or straggling, branching and slightly sticky stem emerges. Larger leaves are typically held on the lower portion of the stem and are triangular or lance shaped. The flowers, though small, are dramatic; though the common name suggests they are pink, in fact they are typically a deep crimson. (They are in the “Pink” family and related to carnations which are commonly called “pinks.”) Very common in its preferred habitat, often in the partial shade of boulders, taller grasses or larger shrubs. Sometimes only the flowers are visible through surrounding vegetation.