Phlox glaberrima (smooth phlox) — perennial

Overview

Phlox glaberrima is a perennial in the genus Phlox, part of the Polemoniaceae family. Phlox glaberrima grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils. It is native to Midwestern United States and Southeastern United States.

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 glaberrima is a perennial member of the phlox family originating from the Midwestern and Southeastern United States, where it occupies moist to wet habitats such as prairies and forest edges. Its natural preference is for soils that remain reliably moist and rich, rather than thin or drought-prone sites. Give plants a position that receives full sun or partial shade and a loamy, nutrient-rich soil that holds moisture. Good drainage is still useful to avoid standing water for prolonged periods, but regular soil moisture suits the species; avoid planting where summer drought is likely. Flowering occurs from June to September, so expect seasonal display through the summer months. In the UK it performs well where moisture can be supplied or retained: pond margins, damp mixed borders, rain-garden schemes and naturalistic meadow strips are all appropriate uses. Grouping several plants will read as a natural colony and make moisture management easier. The species is also sold under the common name marsh phlox in some horticultural lists.