Phlox subulata

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Creeping phloxFamily: Polemoniaceae

Height: 15cmSpread: 50cm
Hardy

Attractive to wildlife

Position

Sun Exposure:

Full sun, partial shade

Aspect:

South facing, west facing

Position in Border:

Front

Soil

Well Drained / Light / Sandy

Phlox subulata is also known by its common names of creeping phlox or moss phlox, and is a popular and easily grown hardy plant for rock gardens, raised beds and border edges. In terms of growing habit, Phlox subulata is non-invasive and cushion or mat-forming, the ‘cushions’ being made up of slender stems clothed with narrow evergreen leaves. Growth is moderately fast, and plants form a neat mound within several years. Masses of tiny, saucer-shaped flowers are borne in late spring and early summer. Individually the blooms are small, from 1.5-3.5cm across, though produced in profusion so that the plant is smothered in colour. The only drawback is its relatively short flowering period, and while the foliage is evergreen and makes useful ground cover to prevent weed growth, it has no real ornamental value.

Phlox subulata blooms best in full sun and does grow reasonably well in partial shade, particularly in warmer areas where it benefits from a little shade during the hottest part of the day. Once established, Phlox subulata is mainly trouble-free to grow, although it may suffer from powdery mildew in periods of hot, dry weather, and also from stem and bulb eelworm. Phlox subulata is widely available in a range of colours.

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Advice on buying Phlox subulata

Creeping phlox comes in a range of flowering colours, so make sure you choose the right colour for the spot you have in mind
Always buy from a reputable company to ensure the plants grow strongly
Check plants for signs of damage and disease before planting

Where to buy creeping phlox

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecPlantyesyesyesyesyes**yesFlowersyes**yesDivideyes**yesPruneyes**yes

Phlox ‘subulata’ and wildlife

Phlox ‘subulata’ is known for attracting bees.

Is known to attract Bees

Bees

Is not known to attract Beneficial insects

Beneficial insects

Is not known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Butterflies/Moths

Butterflies/Moths

Is not known to attract Other pollinators

Other pollinators

Is Phlox ‘subulata’ poisonous?

Phlox ‘subulata’ has no toxic effects reported.

No reported toxicity to:

Is not known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Cats

Cats

Is not known to attract Dogs

Dogs

Is not known to attract Horses

Horses

Is not known to attract Livestock

Livestock

Is not known to attract People

People