The genus name honors the English botanist William Vernon, who did fieldwork in North America. Back of a moist wildflower garden. Can also use on the edges of natural or created wetlands and streams.

Rare and listed as endangered. Please obtain this plant only from reputable native plant nurseries or friends -- do not harvest from the wild. Little is known about the culture of this species. Other Silene species do well if divided at the crown during the winter every few years. Groundcover.

The name 'passion' is a reference to the crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth. Parts of the flower are said to resemble instruments used during the crucifixion. Given the proper support this plant makes an excellent climbing vine hedge.

The wood is noted as being very strong, hence the common name "ironwood" Does not do well much south of its natural range. Small specimen tree. Also good as an understory tree. While rarely grown, this plant is very worth of use in the landscape.

Moist wildflower garden.

Range includes areas usually relatively near the coast in Southeastern United States west to Texas, north to North Carolina, and south to the Monroe County Keys; and Mexico,  the Neotropics and Bermuda. Rare in the northern parts of its range and in the Florida keys. Naturalistic areas especially near the coast.