Royal Catchfly

About Royal Catchfly

Royal Catchfly is a show-stopping prairie native that is widely considered one of the most spectacular red-flowering plants in North America. Reaching heights of 3 to 4 feet, it produces upright stems topped with brilliant, scarlet-red flowers that feature deeply notched petals. These vibrant blooms are specifically adapted for hummingbird pollination, as their long tubes hold a wealth of nectar. Native to a range centered in the Interior Highlands and Midwest, it is a rare find in the wild due to habitat loss but is fortunately very successful in cultivation. It thrives in full sun and well-drained, medium to dry soil, mimicking its native prairie environment. The 'catchfly' name refers to the sticky hairs on its stems and calyx, which deter crawling insects from stealing nectar. This long-lived perennial is a must-have for any hummingbird enthusiast and adds a dramatic splash of color to the mid-summer garden while remaining largely unbothered by deer.