Phlox maculata 'Alpha' (meadow phlox 'Alpha') — Clump-forming

Overview

Phlox maculata 'Alpha' is a clump-forming perennial in the genus Phlox, part of the Polemoniaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Phlox maculata 'Alpha' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, cut flowers and meadow gardens. It is native to eastern United States.

About

Phlox maculata 'Alpha' is a perennial in the Polemoniaceae grown for its fragrant lilac flower heads. It flowers from June to September and suits moist conditions in full sun to partial shade. Hardy (H5) in the UK, it is used in borders, meadow plantings and for cutting. Plant in loam, sandy or clay soils across a range of pH levels.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Phlox maculata

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 maculata 'Alpha' is a meadow phlox cultivar originating from the eastern United States and placed in the family Polemoniaceae. It produces scented lilac flower clusters through the main summer months, providing colour and fragrance from June to September. For cultivation choose a site that receives full sun to partial shade and where the soil remains moist; it adapts to loam, sandy or clay soils and tolerates acidic to alkaline pH. The rating H5 indicates it is hardy for much of the UK, so plants will usually survive typical winter conditions without special protection. Use 'Alpha' in mixed perennial borders, informal meadow schemes or as a cutting plant — stems with flower heads are suitable for bringing indoors. Position plants where stems are accessible so you can harvest individual flower heads without disturbing neighbouring perennials, and allow room for air to move through the clump to keep the flowering display open and fragrant.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Phlox

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: loam, sandy, clay
Soil pH: acidic, neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture: moist
Aspect: South-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Phlox maculata 'Alpha' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Habit: Clump-forming
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: borders, cut flowers, meadow gardens
Native to: eastern United States
Fragrance: Flower

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Phlox maculata 'Alpha'

Cultivation: Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming. May require staking.
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
Propagation: Division, cuttings, seed
Pest resistance: Phlox eelworm
Disease resistance: Powdery mildew, grey mould, leafy gall, leaf spot

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Phlox maculata 'Alpha'?

Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming. May require staking.

Where is the best place to plant Phlox maculata 'Alpha'?

Phlox maculata 'Alpha' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Phlox maculata 'Alpha' need?

Phlox maculata 'Alpha' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loam, sandy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist.

How do I prune Phlox maculata 'Alpha'?

Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.

Is Phlox maculata 'Alpha' hardy in the UK?

Phlox maculata 'Alpha' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Phlox maculata 'Alpha'?

Division, cuttings, seed.

More in the Phlox genus

Browse all Phlox →