This is a very fragrant native woodland phlox with powder-blue flowers in spring. Reaching only 1 foot tall, it can spread to almost 2 feet and makes an attractive groundcover under shrubs or planted with other spring-blooming wildflowers. Leaves are semi-evergreen and hairy; stems root along their length. The blue flowers are salverform with petal lobes. This plant attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsVery fragrant. Spreads by stem roots.
CareGrow in humus-rich, fertile, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade.
PropagationSow seed in a cold frame when ripe or in spring. Take basal cuttings in spring or root cuttings in early fall or winter. Detach rooted stem pieces in spring or early autumn.
ProblemsPowdery mildew, stem canker, rust, Southern blight, stem nematodes, leaf spots, leaf miners, and caterpillars. Rabbits can also cause damage.
- Genus : Phlox
- Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
- Plant Height : 6 to 12 inches
- Characteristics : Attracts Hummingbirds, Fragrant Flowers
- Bloom Time : Early Spring, Late Spring, Spring
- Uses : Ground Covers
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Maintenance : Moderate
- Growth Rate : Moderate
- Light : Partial Shade
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.
