Silene scouleri, commonly known as Scouler’s catchfly or simple campion, is a perennial herb that is native to the Pacific Northwest of North America, specifically from British Columbia to California and eastward to Colorado. It is typically found in a variety of habitats including open woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes. Scouler’s catchfly has erect stems that emerge from a woody caudex and can reach heights of up to 3 feet (1 meter). The plant is characterized by its lance-shaped leaves and clusters of white to pink flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite showy when in large numbers.

Scouler’s catchfly is valued for its ability to thrive in a range of conditions, making it a versatile choice for native plant gardens and restoration projects. It is particularly noted for its drought tolerance once established, requiring minimal water and care. This species is often used in wildflower meadows, rock gardens, and as a border plant in naturalistic landscapes. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils. While generally disease-free, it can occasionally suffer from rust or powdery mildew in overly moist conditions. Scouler’s catchfly is not known for aggressive roots or significant pest problems, making it a low-maintenance addition to the garden.CC BY-SA 4.0