Phlox 'David' — perennial

Overview

Phlox 'David' is a perennial in the genus Phlox, part of the Polemoniaceae family. Phlox 'David' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders and cut flowers. It is native to cultivar.

About

Phlox 'David' is a named cultivar of the genus Phlox in the family Polemoniaceae that flowers from June to September. It belongs to a group of annual and perennial species largely native to North America, occupying habitats from alpine tundra to open woodland and prairie. Members of the genus are valued for their summer-blooming clusters and, in many cases, a scented floral display. Expect Phlox 'David' to contribute sustained summer colour where used in flowering schemes.

About the genus

Phlox is a genus of 68 species of perennial and annual plants in the family Polemoniaceae. They are found mostly in North America in diverse habitats from alpine tundra to open woodland and prairie. Some flower in spring, others in summer and fall.

Wikipedia contributors, "Phlox", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Phlox

In the garden

Phlox 'David' is a cultivated form of Phlox (family Polemoniaceae), a genus chiefly native to North America whose species occur in environments ranging from alpine tundra to prairie and open woodland. That breadth of natural habitats explains why garden phlox can perform across a variety of positions and why many cultivars provide long-lasting summer blooms. Flowering for Phlox 'David' runs from June to September. Choose a site that reflects the species' native range: a sunny spot or a position with some light afternoon shade will suit, while avoiding persistently waterlogged ground. Soil texture across the genus varies in the wild, so most UK garden soils are acceptable provided drainage is reasonable; richer soils and an open aspect encourage the best flowering. Water during dry spells through summer to support continuous bloom. In the garden, Phlox 'David' works well where a sustained summer display is required — in mixed herbaceous borders, informal cottage-style plantings or within larger perennial groups. As with other phloxes, timing of the main flush of flowers aligns with the summer season, so Phlox 'David' reliably provides colour from June to September.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Phlox

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: well-drained
Soil moisture: moist
Exposure: sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Phlox 'David' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Suggested uses: borders, cut flowers
Native to: cultivar
Fragrance: fragrant

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Phlox 'David'

Cultivation: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Water regularly during dry periods. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming.
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
Propagation: Propagation by seed or softwood cuttings in spring.