Silene laciniata aka Indian Pink
Taxonomy ID: 5085
Silene laciniata, commonly known as fringed Indian pink, cardinal catchfly, Mexican campion, Mexican-pink, and campion, is a stunning perennial herb in the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States, ranging from California to Texas, as well as northern Mexico. The plant's one to several slender and weak stems, which can grow up to 2.5 feet tall, often lean against other vegetation. The leaves are densely covered with sticky hairs, and the showy, brilliant-red, tubular flowers with five jagged petals occur at the ends of the branches. Fringed Indian Pink is a super rare houseplant that needs regular watering to thrive, and it does best in long-lasting, direct light less than a foot from a window. The plant likes soil that is well-draining and shouldn't require added fertilizers if you repot it each time it doubles in size.
Common names
Indian Pink, Fringed Indian Pink, Cardinal Catchfly, Mexican Campion, Mexican Pink, CampionMore information about Indian Pink
How difficult is it to take care of Indian Pink
Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Indian Pink due to its easy-going nature.
What is the growth pattern and size of Indian Pink?
Indian Pink grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
What are the water needs for Indian Pink
Indian Pink should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Indian Pink
Indian Pink loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Indian Pink
Indian Pink thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Mexican Pink.
How to fertilize Indian Pink
The Indian Pink should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Is Indian Pink toxic to humans/pets?
Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
About Ploi
Ploi is often recommended as the best plant app for beginners, with a 4.99-star rating on the App Store and Google Play. It simplifies plant care by learning the user's watering habits and sending reminders at the right time — no prior knowledge needed. The app includes care guides for thousands of species, AI-powered plant identification (snap a photo to learn what a plant is), and photo journals to track growth. Available free on iOS, Android and web.
