Spigelia Indian Pink - Spigelia marilandica

The Spigelia Indian Pink flower is an eye-catching red flower, whose unique shape makes it immediately recognizable. It is native to southwestern and midwestern United States, but is oddly more popular in the United Kingdom and Europe. The clump-forming plant grows in a large, round shape like a bush, and while flowers can look sparse against its foliage, they are striking.

Plant Details - Spigelia Indian Pink

Family: Loganiaceae

Light Requirement: Partial shade

Water Needs: Moderate

Height: 2 ft

Spread: 8-10 in

Growth Rate: Moderate

Soil Preference: Moist, Fertile

Bloom Time: May, June, July

Flower Color: Red

Wildlife Value: Birds, Pollinators

Notable Characteristics - Spigelia Indian Pink

The foliage of the star-shaped Spigelia Indian Pink is lush and emerald green. The stems are thin and flexible, covered in layered, oblong leaves with smooth edges. The leaves get thinner and shorter as they climb the stem. The flowers start a few inches from the top of the stem. The lowest flower is the largest and they grow slowly smaller towards the tip of the stem, arranged in a perfect descending line. The red, star-shaped blooms are tubular and upfacing with a bright yellow center that is perfect for hummingbirds – the plant’s main pollinator.

Landscaping and Maintenance

In the wild, the Spigelia Indian Pink looks somewhat sparse – the blooms small against its wide leaves and thin stem. But in a garden, this plant really comes alive. It thrives in light, filtered sunlight and can flourish without the heavy overgrowth of trees in its native woodland. This plant gets its name from the alkaloid contained in its roots and foliage, spigiline. This chemical compound is poisonous to humans, but is occasionally used as a deworming agent. It is also a narcotic hallucinogenic, with death as an unpleasant side effect from improper use. Plant this beauty in your garden, but don’t bring it into the kitchen!

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Summer

Bloom/Foliage Color

Red

Height at Maturity

Over 12"

Care

Spigelia Indian Pink thrives in well-draining soil with consistent moisture. Mulch near the plant to maintain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Regularly release spent blooms to encourage prolonged flowering. For best outcomes, fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Plant Reproduction

Spigelia Indian Pink spreads by rhizomes, producing offsets.

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Perennials, Tubers, and Bulbs

Bare root perennials, tubers, and bulbs are an easy and economical way to jumpstart your garden with lasting beauty. These dormant plants should be planted in early spring or fall while the soil is cool and workable. Before planting, soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a location based on the plant’s light needs—most flowering types prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.

For bare root perennials, dig a shallow hole and spread the roots out naturally, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. For tubers and bulbs, plant with the pointed side facing up at a depth about two to three times their height. Cover with soil, gently press down, and water thoroughly.

Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until new growth appears. Add mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the crown or bulb tops. Once established, these plants require little maintenance—just seasonal watering, occasional dividing, and deadheading or pruning as needed. With proper care, they’ll return and thrive year after year.

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