I ordered Lychnis chalcedonica aka Jerusalem Cross Maltese Cross (didn't know it was on the invasive list!) The petals on my plant does not look like the ones at this link. The 'in question' plant looks similiar to the silene virginica, except this plant stem is not sticky. http://www.invasiveplants.ab.ca/OrnamentalPhotos/MalteseCrossflowers.jpg Thanks for your input. plantbug

Two closely related species in the same Family, (Caryophyllaceae), are Silene regia (Royal catchfly) and Silene virginica (Fire pink) Both have brilliant red flowers and are native to the eastern states. Some particularly attractive selections of Silene regia have been given cultivar names and are often available at local and online nurseries. Both species are easily grown from seed and you might check with seed sources that specialize in native wildflowers. Here is a link that might be useful: Silene regia

Solidago caesia is called bluestem or wreath goldenrod. Zigzag goldenrod is S. flexicaulis. I grow them both and neither is invasive for me. Both are fine garden plants for shade, along with S. erecta, wand goldenrod. All three offer different form and leaf color as well as flower presentation. Here in middle TN they bloom in August and September, which isn't that late in this climate, anyway. Soeur

Other than feeders, one of the important early nectar sources in my garden is Silene virginica (fire pink). They are very easy to grow. Aquilegia canadensis (wild columbine) is also fairly early, and hummingbirds love both.