Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin' (Garden Phlox) — Perennial

Overview

Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin' is a perennial in the genus Phlox, part of the Polemoniaceae family. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall. Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders and cut flowers. It is native to United States.

About

Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin' is a fragrant perennial that produces upright flowerheads and reaches about 1.2 m. It favours a sunny position in moist but well-drained soil and will tolerate sandy, loamy or clay soils. Flowers appear from June to September, supplying long-season scent for borders and bouquets. Useful in mixed borders and for cutting, it is fully hardy in the UK (H7).

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Phlox paniculata

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 paniculata 'Harlequin' is a perennial from the eastern United States grown for its scented summer display and upright habit to about 1.2 m. It flowers from June to September, providing a long run of blooms that work well for fresh-cut arrangements as well as for the back of a sunny border. Plant in a position with full sun and soil that remains moist but drains freely; the variety adapts to sandy, loamy or clay soils so long as water does not stand around the roots. In British terms it is fully hardy (H7), so mature plants survive typical winter conditions across the UK without winter protection. Place it where its scent can be appreciated—near a path, terrace or among taller herbaceous perennials—and allow enough room for an upright clump to develop. Cut stems for indoor vases when several flowers are open to make the most of the fragrance and showy heads from June through September.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Phlox

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Exposure: Full sun
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Height: 1.2 m
Suggested uses: Borders, Cut flowers
Native to: United States
Fragrance: Fragrant

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin'

Cultivation: Plant in moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Propagation: Division, Cuttings

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin'?

Plant in moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming.

Where is the best place to plant Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin'?

Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin' need?

Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How do I prune Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin'?

Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

How big does Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin' grow?

Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin' reaches a height of 1.2 m.

Is Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin' hardy in the UK?

Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Phlox paniculata 'Harlequin'?

Division, Cuttings.

More in the Phlox genus

Browse all Phlox →