About
A semi-evergreen perennial, to around 30cm high, with trailing, rooting stems and hairy, oval-shaped leaves. Loose clusters of aromatic, violet-blue flowers are borne at the tips of the stems in late spring.
About the genus
Phlox may be evergreen or herbaceous, mat-forming or erect perennials or shrubs, with simple leaves and salver-shaped flowers in terminal clusters
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy, Trailing
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toC & E USA
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, moist soil in full sun or partial shade. See phlox cultivation for further advice
PruningCut back in late spring after flowering, to promote new growth
PropagationPropagate by root cuttings or by softwood cuttings of non-flowering stems in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free, though may be susceptible to grazing by rabbits
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews and leaf spot