Also known as bachelor button and redcatchfly , this herbaceous biennial or perennial is in carnation family, Caryophyllaceae, that also includes baby’s breath, soapwort, and chickweed. It is native to northern and central Europe where it grows on damp nonacidic soils along roadsides, in woodlands ,and on rocky slopes. The plants grow twelve to twenty four inches tall and have hairy, slightly sticky stems and leaves. The stems are branching and the dark green leaves are oval and have untoothed margins. Male and female flowers appear on different plants from late spring to early fall and have five dark pink to red petals that are deeply notched at the tip. 
Meaning in the Language of Flowers: I with the morning’s love have oft made sport
Quotes:
When I said I would die a bachelor, I did not think
I should live till I were married. Shaks.
Love’s a mighty lord;
And hath so humbled me, as I confess
There is no woe to his correction,
Nor, to his service, no such joy on earth!
Now, no discourse, except it be of love-
now can I break my fast, dine, sup, and sleep,
Upon the very naked name of love. Id.
Your beauty was the cause of that effect:
Your beauty which did hant me in my sleep. Id.
Your virtues, graced with external gifts,
Kindle love’s settled passion in my heart. Id.
Ever till now
When men were fond, I smiled and wondered how. Id.
Now I am
As true a lover as ever sighed on midnight pillow. id.
Answer
Flora’s choice buttons of a russet die,
Is hope-even in the depths of misery. Brown
For more information go to:
The Language of Flowers: Introduction
Karen Meyers