| These delightful summer-blooming wildflowers add a splash of bright red to a border, woodland or naturalized garden. Borne in an asymmetrical sheaf, narrow, upraised scarlet tubes open slightly into 5 yellow points around a protruding yellow stigma. Once used by Native American healers, they are still found in homeopathic remedies for migraine and menopausal symptoms. The extremely rare Gentian Pinkroot or Indian Pink (Spigelia gentianoides) received federal endangered status in 1990. Once common in southeastern United States woodlands cleared for cotton fields in the 1800's, only about a hundred specimens survive in 3 known colonies. Different species do best in partial shade or full sun. Plant in fertile soil and keep moist, especially through hot sunny periods. Only the most common United States native, Spigelia marilandica, tolerates cold to 5º F or lower. All other species need a minimum of 45º to 50º F. They self-pollinate, producing plenty of seeds. Sow these, or divide in spring or early fall. Can also root spring cuttings taken before flower buds appear. |
This disarming woodland flower has tubular red flowers that flare out, exposing a bright yellow throat. Thrives in moist woodland but takes full sun given moisture and deep rich soil. Poisonous.
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Attributes - Spigelia marilandica
Plant Type: Perennial
Bloom Season: Late Summer through Early Fall
Flower Color: Red, Yellow
Foliage: Deciduous
Height: 1 ft. to 2 ft.
Width: 1 ft. 6 in.
Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Sun
Climate: Zones 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Notes: Thrives in Acid Soil, Hot Climates. Poisonous, Showy Flowers.
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