Phlox flowers are stunning with multiple shades. Whether you choose creeping phlox or mounding phlox, growing them is easy with our guide. Expert Lorin Nielson will show you the steps to growing phlox successfully.In shades of white, pink, red, purple and blue, phlox is an incredibly popular, brilliantly-flowered ornamental. Whether it’s creeping phlox spreading out to become a beautiful ground cover, or a mounding phlox in the garden, these delicate flowers are definitely a sight to behold.
The term “phlox” originates with the Greek word for “flame”, likely referencing some of the red shades. However, most phloxes growing wild throughout North America tend towards lighter hues.
Let’s explore some of the diversity of phlox species today, as well as go over the best way to ensure you have a proliferation of bright blooms throughout the year!Phlox encompasses several species of annuals and perennials. Some are upright, and others are more low-lying. All can be an excellent ground cover, as they readily self-seed and easily spread on their own.
Phlox species are mostly relegated to the prairies and woodlands of North America, but there are some varieties that cover the northern parts of Asia. They thrive in diverse habitats, ranging from alpine tundra to open woodlands and prairies. Most species can be found in temperate regions, with many varieties adapted to specific climates and soil conditions. Phlox is often found in sunny locations with well-drained soil, making it a favorite in wildflower gardens.The stalks of all phlox plants are green when they’re young, and grow woody as they mature. Flowers bloom at variable times, and in different shades from white, to pink, to violet. Many are native plants that host important butterfly and moth pollinators.
Phlox plants are perfect for planting on slopes and in rock gardens. They survive in poor soils and cover ground for erosion control. During their blooming period, they’ll provide pops of color. Though they may die back in cold winters, they’ll return again in spring via their spreading and branching roots. There are 67 species in the Polemoniaceae family, all of which are considered to be phlox.