General Culture:
Best grown in humusy, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil in part shade to full shade. Prefers rich, moist, organic soils, but tolerates dryish soils. Appreciates a light summer mulch which helps retain moisture and keep roots cool.
Noteworthy Characteristics:
This spreading, low-growing, hybrid phlox is a cross between Phlox divaricata var. laphamii and Phlox pilosa. Stems typically grow 10-12" tall. Loose clusters of slightly fragrant, tubular, pale lavender-blue flowers with maroon throats and five, flat, petal-like lobes appear at the stem tips in spring. A prolific bloomer. Lance-shaped to elliptic, shiny, dark green leaves (to 2" long). Can form colonies over time as leafy shoots spread along the ground rooting at the nodes.
Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.
Powdery mildew can be a problem. Cutting back stems after flowering helps combat mildew. Spider mites can also be a problem, particularly in hot, dry conditions. Watch out for rabbits.
Uses:
Rock gardens, border fronts, wild gardens, native plant gardens or naturalized areas. Also an effective shallow-rooted cover for early spring bulbs.
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Garden, 2001-2010