Phlox paniculata and phlox subulata (creeping phlox) are both used as ground cover plants. However there is a little more to Phlox plants than these two species and the cultivars. Phlox subulata ‘Tamaongalei’ is pictured right
With over 50 species, Phlox plants are great for a range of situations and vary from low growing ground cover plants to taller species that hold their place in the perennial border. Long flowering and hardy, phlox is a plant that is often overlooked, but is a useful addition to any garden.
The scent of the flowers at night when in full bloom is reason enough to grow them in the border.
Care
- A position where they receive afternoon shade and a re grown in a humus rich moist soil is ideal for most phlox species.
- Taller species and cultivars may need staking.
- Most species can be pruned after the first flowering period to promote a second flush of flowers.
Phlox Varieties
- Phlox subulata (Moss Phlox) is a low growing plant to around 6″ a wonderful flowering perennial thats forms a creeping carpet of flowers.
- Phlox subulata ‘Tamaongalei’ is a popular cultivar.
- Phlox stolonifera (Creeping Phlox) is a slightly taller species to around 12′ again a creeping plant that spreads by underground stolons.
- Phlox bifida (Sand Phlox) is also low growing and reaches a little over 6″, frost hardy, semi evergreen and carpets of pink flowers in summer to fall.
- Phlox divaricata
The taller garden Phlox we see are Phlox paniculata hybrids a favourite in cottage gardens, long flowering and reaching nearly 1m, lots of cultivars including:
- Phlox paniculata ‘Bright Eyes’
- The beautiful mauve to blue flowering Phlox paniculata ‘Blue Paradise’ .
- Phlox paniculata ‘White Admiral’ with its fragrant white flowers.
Propagation
Very easy by division of established clumps, best divided in spring. Also easy by seed.
Where to buy
CLASSY GROUNDCOVERS – tel: 88-404-4678
45 Wiley Rd Blairsville GA 30514
Evergreen flowering ground covers, grasses, vines, ivy, … Free Shipping of over 150 varieties of quality groundcovers.
www.classygroundcovers.com
