Silene dioica (Red campion) — Photograph, Ruhla, Germany, 2026

HA-0258 · Photograph, Ruhla, Germany, 04/2026, Julian Auch

Red campionSilene dioica

Silene dioica, commonly known as red campion, is a perennial wildflower native to Europe. It is recognized by its vivid pink to magenta flowers and softly hairy stems and leaves. The species name dioica means “two households,” referring to the plant’s unusual separation into male and female individuals. Unlike many meadow flowers, red campion blooms for an exceptionally long period, often from spring into autumn, bringing bright color to woodland edges and hedgerows. In folklore, it was sometimes associated with fairies and considered unlucky to bring indoors, adding to its long-standing presence in rural traditions.

Scientific Name

Silene dioica

Family

Caryophyllaceae

Order

Caryophyllales

Lifespan

perennial

Blossom Color

pink

Blossom Symmetry

radial