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Lychnis viscaria (now often classified as Silene viscaria) is a perennial flowering plant in the Caryophyllaceae (pink) family.
Common names
Sticky catchfly
German catchfly
Key features
Flowers: Bright pink to magenta, star-shaped, usually in dense clusters
Flowering time: Late spring to early summer
Stems: Upright, often with a sticky band just below the flower cluster (hence viscaria)
Leaves: Narrow, lance-shaped, mostly basal
Habitat & distribution
Native to Europe and western Asia
Grows in dry meadows, rocky slopes, grasslands, and open woodland edges
Prefers well-drained soils and full sun
Ecology
Attractive to pollinators, especially butterflies and bees
The sticky stem is thought to deter crawling insects that don’t pollinate the flowers
25g | 50g | 100g | 250g | 500g
You have two good options:
Best for starting indoors or in a cold frame.
Produces flowering plants the same or following year.
Seeds benefit from cool temperatures.
Plants establish over winter and flower strongly in spring/summer.
Use trays or small pots with a light, well-draining seed mix.
Surface sow — the seeds are very small.
Lightly press them into the soil; do not bury them deeply.
Mist gently and keep the surface slightly moist.
Ideal temperature: 15–20°C (59–68°F).
Germination usually takes 2–4 weeks.
Choose a sunny or lightly shaded location with well-drained soil.
Rake the soil fine, sprinkle seeds, and water gently.
Mark the area so you don’t disturb them.
Thin young plants to 20–30 cm (8–12 inches) apart.
Avoid overwatering; Lychnis prefers well-drained, slightly dry conditions.
Once established, it’s a tough and drought-tolerant perennial.
Lychnis viscaria thrives in rock gardens, borders, and dry, sunny spots.
Deadhead spent flowers to extend blooming.
It can self-seed lightly if allowed.
| Packet Size | 25g | 50g | 100g | 250g | 500g |
|---|---|
| Hardiness & Lifecycle | Hardy Annual |
| Expected Height | 40cm |
