PHLOX PANICULATA ‘NATURAL FEELINGS’

What a bizarre-looking phlox this is. I sometimes think ‘Unnatural Feelings’ might have been a better name, as it’s not at all what you’d expect from a Phlox paniculata. The panicles – which are composed of red-pink flowers with a centre of pale-green petaloid stamens – look like wrinkled little umbels, made out of small, paper pouches. Despite its unusual appearance, it is a good and healthy grower, and the panicles last for several months making it a striking and civilised addition to the border.

Height 80cm. Origin Garden origin (species North America). Conditions Moist but well-drained soil; full sun to part shade. Hardiness RHS H7, USDA 4a-8b. Season of interest Mid to late summer.