About
Phlox nivalis, the trailing phlox, is a mat-forming, evergreen perennial with long, trailing stems and small, hairy, lance-shaped leaves. Clusters of lilac-pink or occasionally white flowers are borne on short, upright stems in mid to late spring. A rewarding, low-growing phlox for a sunny, well-drained rock garden or wall top.
About the genus
Phlox are evergreen or herbaceous, mat-forming or erect perennials or shrubs with simple leaves and salver-shaped or flat-faced flowers in terminal clusters, ranging from compact alpines to tall border perennials. Popular and reliable garden plants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming, Trailing
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Native toUnited States
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, moist soil in full sun or partial shade. See phlox cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings from non-flowering shoots in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews and leaf spot