Indian-pink (Silene laciniata, Icon. 6: 44 (1801))

Family: Caryophyllaceae

Author: Cav.

Bibliography: Icon. 6: 44 (1801)

Year: 1801

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Silene

Vegetable: False

Observations: California (Santa Cruz I.) to Mexico

Description

Indian-pink, scientifically designated as Silene laciniata, is a captivating plant species belonging to the family Caryophyllaceae. The formal botanical classification and description of this striking plant were first documented in the botanical work “Icones Plantarum” in 1801 by its author Cav.

This perennial herb is native to distinct regions, stretching gracefully from California, particularly in the Santa Cruz Islands, extending down to the landscapes of Mexico. The Indian-pink is well-adapted to these areas and thrives in the diverse climatic conditions available across its range.

The Indian-pink is recognized for its vivid red to pink flowers, which display intricate lacinated or deeply lobed petals that contribute to its unique and ornamental appearance. These flowers not only enhance the visual appeal of the plant but also play a crucial role in attracting pollinators, thereby supporting the ecological balance in its natural habitat.

In terms of horticultural interest, Silene laciniata is often sought after for rock gardens and naturalized areas due to its hardiness and striking floral displays. Gardeners and botanists alike appreciate its aesthetic qualities and the ease with which it can be incorporated into various garden settings.

The plant’s ecological significance and its role in horticulture are backed by its adaptability and resilience in both wild and cultivated environments. Overall, the Indian-pink serves as a notable example of botanical beauty and ecological importance in the Caryophyllaceae family, firmly rooted in the subtropical realms of North America.

Common Names

Eng: indian-pink, mexican campion, mexican catchfly, mexican pink, mexican-pink, cardinal catchfly
En: Indian-pink, Mexican campion, Mexican-pink, Cardinal catchfly, Mexican catchfly, Mexican pink
Nv: Dahiitį́hídą́ą́ʼ

Synonyms

• Melandrium laciniatum ((Cav.) Rohrb.)
• Silene laciniata subsp. typica (C.L.Hitchc. & Maguire)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• California (native)
• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Texas (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Dec 18, 2021 by Mellifluous Magpie (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 6, 2019 by ben vc (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 12, 2021 by Martha López Zuppa (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 18, 2021 by Mellifluous Magpie (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 30, 2021 by Andrea Faley (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jun 14, 2015 by EOL − Damon Tighe (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 10, 2022 by Ariel Gold (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 8, 2014 by EOL − Don Loarie (cc-by)

Taken Sep 14, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 18, 2021 by Mellifluous Magpie (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jun 21, 2013 by EOL − John Dorusinec IV (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 22, 2013 by EOL − John Dorusinec IV (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 22, 2014 by EOL − kc412 (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 14, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 14, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Habit

Taken Sep 14, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 7, 2016 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 7, 2016 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken May 18, 2013 by EOL − Alison Forrestel (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 10, 2013 by EOL − Carey (cc-by-nc)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5384837)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30096089-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Silene laciniata Cav.)

Specifications

Growth habit: Forb/herb

Growth