Spigelia marilandica

Common Names

Indian Pink, Woodland Pinkroot, Pinkroot, Worm-Grass

Summary

Spigelia marilandica is a southeastern United States native herbaceous perennial that forms compact clumps about 12–24 inches tall and 6–18 inches wide, with upright stems bearing red tubular flowers that face upward and reveal a yellow interior star. Blooms occur from mid-spring to early summer, often lasting several weeks and sometimes reblooming, and are highly attractive to hummingbirds. It prefers partial to full shade and moist, fertile, well‑drained soil with a slightly acidic pH and abundant organic matter; once established, it tolerates some drought.

Propagation is by seed or division, with seeds germinating in 1–3 months after cold stratification, and softwood cuttings also used. All parts are poisonous if ingested due to alkaloids such as spigiline, so caution is advised around children and pets; it is deer- and rabbit-resistant. Hardy in USDA zones 5a–9b, it is valued for shaded borders, woodland gardens, and as a nectar source for pollinators and cut flowers in cultivation.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

12-24 inches

Spread

12-24 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Partial Shade; tolerates sun and shade and can tolerate Full Sun if soil remains moist.

Soil Type

Moist, well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil, moderately moist

Soil pH

6.0-7.5

Acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

Red with yellow center

Bloom Time

Spring to Summer

Foliage Color

Glossy green

Fall Foliage Color

No fall foliage color because it loses its leaves in fall.

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Fast

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts hummingbirds