The Plant Guide

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Garden phlox

Phlox paniculata

floks pah-nik-yew-LAY-tah
garden phlox

This sturdy, upright perennial reaches 2 to 4 feet tall. In July and August, and through September with deadheading, it bears flowers in shades of white, coral, pink, red, lavender, and violet, depending on the cultivar. Some have a lighter or darker eye, and others have variegated leaves. Many of the cultivars are fragrant; scent is most noticeable at night.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsBest known and latest-blooming phlox. Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. When allowed to self-seed, cultivars may revert to a more vigorous plant with lavender-rose flowers.

CareGrow in fertile, moist soil.

PropagationDivide in autumn or spring.

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

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  • Genus : Phlox
  • Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
  • Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
  • Zones : 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
  • Characteristics : Attracts Hummingbirds, Fragrant Flowers, Self Seeds
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Fall Interest
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Plant Type : Perennials
  • Flower Color : Pink, White
  • Bloom Time : Summer

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