Spigelia marilandica 'Little Redhead'

Lure hummingbirds and add vibrant color with the unusual flowers of Spigelia marilandica 'Little Redhead,’ a compact selection of a carefree North American native. The tubular blossoms are held upright on sturdy stems, the better to show off their bold red coloring and the yellow interior that reveals itself in the shape of a gold star at each flower's opening. ‘Little Redhead’ is smaller and tidier than other Indian Pinks, making it especially well-suited to life in the garden. The plant’s gleaming green foliage provides texture and shine over a long season. ‘Little Redhead’ thrives in moist, part-shade areas and will spread slowly in a site it likes. The flowers appear in late spring or early summer, lasting for weeks, with some possibility of intermittent repeat bloom into autumn. The plants will grow in full sun if moisture is steady. They also show some tolerance of wet soil.

Plants in the genus Spigelia marilandica are perennial wildflowers that are native to regions of the southeastern US. Commonly called Indian Pinks, they can be found growing in the wild in moist woodlands and along the banks of streams. In gardens, these plants thrive in part-shade areas where there is organically rich soil with steady moisture and good drainage. Hummingbirds love the flowers, which generally arrive in early summer and may repeat intermittently into fall.

For information on growing and care, click Growing Guide.