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Moss phlox

Phlox subulata

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Phlox subulata 'Apple Blossom'

Moss phlox is a dense ground cover blanketed with notch-petaled flowers in April and May. Blooms can be muddy hot pink, bright rose, and magenta, while other cultivars include white, soft lavender-blue, clear pale pink to deep pink, clear scarlet, and lavender, some with a darker or lighter eye. Evergreen foliage is narrow, short, and stiff. Darker-flowered forms have dark-green leaves or red-tinged leaves that darken to burgundy in winter.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsReliable and low-maintenance. Use on steep, dry banks, and cascade over walls and out of containers. Some cultivars grow very slowly, while others are vigorous and can spread several feet if not cut back hard after they bloom.

CareThrives in average, well-drained soil and full sun, and tolerates drought and sandy, gravelly, rocky, and low-fertility soils.

PropagationInsert basal cuttings in spring, or take root cuttings in early autumn or winter.

ProblemsPowdery mildew, stem canker, rust, Southern blight, stem nematodes, Cercospora and Septoria leaf spots, leaf miners, and caterpillars

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  • Genus : Phlox
  • Zones : 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
  • Uses : Containers, Ground Covers
  • Tolerance : Drought Tolerant
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Plant Type : Perennials
  • Flower Color : Pink, White
  • Bloom Time : Spring
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest

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