What Are the Different Types of Phlox Plant

Phlox plants are a popular choice among gardeners due to their vibrant colors and delicate blooms. These versatile plants come in various types, each with its own unique characteristics. In this article, we will explore some of the different types of phlox plants and learn about their distinguishing features.

1. Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata)

Garden phlox, also known as perennial phlox or tall phlox, is one of the most common types of phlox plants found in gardens. It is a hardy perennial that produces clusters of fragrant flowers in shades of white, pink, purple, and red. Garden phlox can grow up to three to four feet tall and is ideal for borders, beds, and cottage-style gardens.

Some popular cultivars of garden phlox include ‘David,’ which has pure white flowers, ‘Franz Schubert,’ which has lavender-pink flowers with a dark pink eye, and ‘Bright Eyes,’ which features pale pink flowers with a dark pink center.

2. Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata)

Creeping phlox, also known as moss phlox or ground phlox, is a low-growing variety that forms a dense mat of foliage. It is native to North America and is often used as a ground cover or cascading over walls and slopes. Creeping phlox blooms in early spring and offers a stunning display of flowers in shades of white, pink, lavender, and blue.

One popular cultivar of creeping phlox is ‘Emerald Blue,’ which features vibrant blue-purple flowers and forms a dense carpet-like mat. ‘Candy Stripe’ is another notable cultivar with pink flowers that have white stripes.

3. Drummond’s Phlox (Phlox drummondii)

Drummond’s phlox, also known as annual phlox, is a charming annual plant native to Texas and parts of Mexico. It is prized for its profusion of fragrant flowers that come in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, purple, and white. Drummond’s phlox blooms from spring to summer and adds a splash of color to gardens, containers, and hanging baskets.

Notable cultivars of Drummond’s phlox include ‘Cherry Caramel,’ which has unique bi-colored flowers in shades of cherry red and caramel, and ‘Twinkles Pink Star,’ which features delicate pink flowers with a dark pink star-shaped center.

4. Woodland Phlox (Phlox divaricata)

Woodland phlox, also known as wild blue phlox or sweet William, is a native wildflower found in woodland areas of North America. It is a shade-loving perennial that produces clusters of fragrant lavender-blue flowers in early spring. Woodland phlox is an excellent choice for naturalized gardens or shady spots under trees.

One popular cultivar of woodland phlox is ‘May Breeze,’ which has large, pure white flowers that stand out against its dark green foliage. ‘Blue Moon’ is another notable cultivar with vibrant blue flowers and a compact growth habit.

5. Garden Phlox (Phlox maculata)

Garden phlox, also known as meadow phlox or wild sweet William, is a native perennial found in moist meadows and open woodlands. It is similar to the more common garden phlox (Phlox paniculata) but has smaller flowers and narrower leaves. Garden phlox blooms from mid to late summer and offers clusters of fragrant flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white.

Notable cultivars of garden phlox include ‘Natascha,’ which has light pink flowers with a dark pink eye, and ‘Alpha,’ which features deep purple flowers with a white star-shaped center.

6. Moss Phlox (Phlox douglasii)

Moss phlox, also known as Douglas’s phlox, is a low-growing perennial native to western North America. It forms dense mats of evergreen foliage and produces clusters of vibrant flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white. Moss phlox blooms in late spring to early summer and is ideal for rock gardens, slopes, and borders.

One popular cultivar of moss phlox is ‘Scarlet Flame,’ which has bright red flowers with a yellow center. ‘White Delight’ is another notable cultivar with pure white flowers that create a striking contrast against the green foliage.

In conclusion, phlox plants offer a wide range of options for gardeners looking to add color and beauty to their landscapes. Whether you prefer tall garden phlox, low-growing creeping phlox, or the delicate blooms of woodland phlox, there is a type of phlox plant to suit every garden style and preference. Consider incorporating these stunning plants into your garden for a burst of color and fragrance throughout the seasons.