Caryophyllaceae
Silene californica

California Indian-Pink

Sprawling or clambering in bushes. Stems from woody base, weak, sparsely hairy. Leaves opposite on stem, widely lance- to egg-shaped; lower leaves withering by flowering; middle leaves 1–3 in. long, reducing in size upward. Flowers in loose clusters at top, 5 bright red petals each divided into 4 lobes with rounded or toothed tips, calyx 1/2–1 in. long with sticky glands. Grows in open woods at low to mid elevations.

  • Rarity: Locally Common
  • Flowering Time: All Spring And Summer
  • Life Cycle: Perennial
  • Height: 8--20 inches
  • Habitat: West-Side Forest
  • Found In: Siskiyous
  • Native: Yes