Plectritis congesta. This familiar pink wildflower is native to the Northwest coast and forests, blooming in late spring and growing as a (tame) self-seeding annual. Sea Blush seeds can be direct sown in full sun to partial shade in spring or late fall for blooms the following spring. Sea Blush is a tough plant that is well equipped to being exposed to the elements. In very exposed seaside terrain it may only reach 10cm (4") tall. But with a bit of protection it will grow upright to 60cm (24") tall. This easy-going flower can tolerate full sun to partial shade, and is hardy to Zone 3.
Annual.
Plectritis is a member of the honeysuckle family that is native to western North America, from Vancouver Island to southern California.
Latin
Plectritis congesta
Family: Caprifoliaceae
Difficulty
Easy but slow
Season & Zone
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Timing
Direct sow in early spring, while a risk of frost is still possible. Sow as late as the end of May. Seeds can also be sown in late fall.
Starting
Barely cover the tiny seeds. Keep moist until germination.
Growing
Sea Blush is quite carefree, resilient, and hardy to fairly rough weather. Grow in full sun to partial shade in any partially moist soil. It does not require soil that is particularly fertile.
