Fragrant phlox grows well in the wild or in gardens
commonly known as garden phlox, is a perennial that grows wild in woodlands and open fields and on cliffs. Its many cultivars are favorites for home gardens, mixed borders and partly shaded areas. The flowers of
are fragrant; white, lavender or rosecolored; and arranged in loose clusters at the top of sturdy stems.
The word is derived from the Greek word for “flame,” because the shape of the flower cluster was considered reminiscent of a tongue of fire.
Phlox’s five-petaled, trumpet-shaped blooms are especially attractive to hummingbirds. The plant is pollinated by butterflies, bees and moths, which are drawn to its nectar.
Its dark-green leaves are narrow and pointed. Plants grow 2 to 6 feet high, spread 1 to 3 feet and bloom in July through October.
is native to the eastern United States and southeastern Canada, but it also has naturalized in areas beyond its native range.
European explorers to North America and early American botanists introduced U.S.-native wildflowers to Europe. The Europeans appreciated
easy cultivation and colorful blooms, which led to hybrids in England, France and eventually the United States.
There are more than 500 cultivars in existence today with white, NATIVE PLANTS pink, red, coral, orange, blue, purple and even bi-color blooms.
The genus part of the
family, which includes Jacob’s ladder, a hardy perennial with lavender flowers. is
Growing requirements Hardiness: Zones 4-8 Sun: part shade to full sun
Water: average to moist Soil: average to rich; well-drained; tolerates clay, black walnut Maintenance: low; deadhead to prolong flowering
Propagation: self-sows; seed; division
Pests and diseases: susceptible to powdery mildew — to prevent, provide good air circulation, water at ground level
Common cultivars
These are popular versions, but growers seeking a native-only garden should note they are genetically different from the wild originals: ■ ‘David’: white bloom; mildew resistant; 2002 Perennial Plant of the Year
■ ‘Bright Eyes’: pale-pink blooms with a dark-pink eye; good cut flower
■ ‘Blue Paradise’: blue to violet bloom, depending on light; mildew resistant
Medicinal uses
A leaf extract of Phlox
has been used as a laxative and topically to treat boils. Related Phlox species have been used by Native Americans to treat stomach and intestinal problems and skin conditions.
Dame’s rocket
This plant is easily confused with
because they both have similar growing habits and flower colors.
However, dame’s rocket is not native. It is part of the
(mustard) family, as well as a biennial, and it has four-petaled flowers.
Fun fact
In 19th-century Victorian England, it became popular to express feelings using the “language of flowers.” When young ladies carried nosegays, including garden phlox, they could symbolize a wish for pleasant dreams or a love proposal.