Garden Phlox
Phlox paniculata
Also called: Summer Phlox, Tall Phlox
Garden Phlox. Phlox paniculata, the garden phlox or summer phlox, is a tall upright herbaceous perennial native to woodland clearings and stream banks of the eastern and central United States. Fragrant pyramidal flower clusters in pink, white, purple, magenta, or lavender bloom for 4–6 weeks from midsummer above narrow lance-shaped leaves. A pollinator favorite and one of the great old-fashioned cottage garden perennials.
Growing & care
- Sun: full sun for best bloom and tightest growth; tolerates light afternoon shade.
- Water: consistent moisture. Mulch heavily to keep roots cool; water at soil level to keep foliage dry.
- Soil: rich, fertile, well-drained loam with slightly acidic to neutral pH.
- Hardiness: USDA zones 4–8. Heat tolerance varies by cultivar; southern zone gardeners should look for mildew-resistant southern-bred selections.
- Spacing: 18–24 inches for airflow — crowded plants get mildew. Thin each clump to 4–6 strongest stems in spring for tallest, healthiest growth.
- Deadhead: snip spent flower clusters above the next bud to encourage a second flush.
Propagation
Divide established clumps every 3–4 years in early spring as new growth emerges, or in early fall. Lift the entire clump, slice the crown into wedges with at least 3 stems each, and replant promptly. Basal cuttings taken in late spring also root readily. Self-sown seedlings often revert to the magenta of the species; named cultivars must be divided to preserve color.
Common problems
Powdery mildew is universal and predictable in garden phlox — choose resistant cultivars like 'David', 'Jeana', and 'Robert Poore'. Spider mites flourish in hot dry weather; water deeply and hose down foliage in extremes. Rabbits browse young shoots. Garden phlox is non-toxic to dogs and cats per ASPCA listings.
Garden Phlox — seeds, tools & books
Native range
Native to 31 states
