There are many kinds of Phlox but there are 2 main species that are used at Dawn Gardens. Phlox paniculata is a deciduous perennial for the summer garden and Phlox subulata is an evergreen groundcover for late spring.
Phlox paniculata – Deciduous Perennial
Phlox in the landscape
Phlox paniculata ‘Coral Creme’
Phlox paniculata ‘David’
Pink and Purple varieties
This photo was taken in May showing the green leaves and tall stems. At this point the plant is 18”-2’ tall. If it is not cut back it will continue to grow to 3-4’ and then bloom in July.
Half of the plant is cut back and the other half is left tall.
This is the same plant cut back to 12-15” so it will bloom in July at 2’-30” height. The advantage of this is that it will not need staking if it is overhead watered.
Deadheading the terminal flower cluster produces many side branches and extends the length of flowering.
This plant was not cut back so it only has terminal flowers.
The common name, Moss Pink, describes its low habit – 6”. This planting started with 5 1 gallon plants and now they cover an area 20’ wide with creeping stems. It took about 5 years.
The predominant color of groundcover Phlox is pink but there are white, lavender and blue varieties.
Phlox subulata blooms profusely in March and April with flowers completely covering the foliage.
Phlox subulata ‘Emerald Blue’
Phlox subulata ‘Candy Stripe’
Phlox ‘Violet Pinwheels’
Creeping Phlox (Phlox stolonifera) This is a third major kind of Phlox. It has a short bloom time.