Garden Phlox
Photo from Dylan Hackett
Scientific Description: - Garden Phlox – Phlox paniculata – is a clump-forming, herbaceous, perennial plant reaching heights of three to four feet and is found mostly in the eastern half of North America (Hardiness Zones 4 through 8). It seems to do best in the rich soils of open woods, thickets, and moist areas along roadways. Garden Phlox is a member of the Phlox (Polemoniaceae); other members include Mountain Trumpet and Jacob’s Ladder.
The fragrant bloom of this species forms a pyramid of either pink or purple (occasionally white) flowers extending approximately four to eight inches on a terminal cluster from June through August. It prefers full sun and moist soils consisting of organic material (compost) and loam.
If this species develops into a crowded population, it will be far more susceptible to powdery mildew. If this happens, remove the portions of the plant that have the fungus, then burn or otherwise remove them from the garden and prune the remaining plants to a more manageable group. This will increase the air circulation and, thereby, decrease the chances of the mildew. This species is also susceptible to Phlox bugs and root rot.
Habitat Value: - Garden Phlox has been used medicinally in the past, especially in the treatment of boils and as a laxative – using an extract of the leaves.
This plant is particularly attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. It is an excellent choice for a bird garden.
The plant tolerates grazing by deer. It also tolerates drought conditions quite well, so long as they are not too lengthy.
Photo from Dylan Hackett
Landscape Value: -by Thomas Brown, WMWA Landscape Architects
Garden phlox, prized for its billows of sweetly fragrant blooms, should be a staple for anyone desiring long-lasting, trouble-free garden color in the mid-summer months. While its flowers, which are beloved by butterflies and hummingbirds, are undoubtedly the star, don’t overlook the dark, leathery green foliage, which is quite handsome.
This native phlox is a highly popular perennial, with dozens of cultivars introduced over the past decades. These range in color from timeless white and subtle lavenders to iridescent pinks and bold magentas. Because of its abundant propagation within the nursery trade, you can find varieties from 2’ tall up to almost 5’, with many boasting improved mildew resistance.
As one of its alternative names, border phlox, suggests, Phlox paniculata is an outstanding addition to perennial borders and beds. It works nicely in masses and pairs well with other perennials, particularly with the golden hues of Rudbeckia and Coreopsis. Because of its prolific blooms, pleasing scent, and attractiveness to birds, garden phlox should be placed along walkways or near windows and entrances.
