Phlox blooms in many cottage gardens and is hard to imagine without. Its splendor of flowers delights viewers for a long time. Many of the old varieties are perennials. But there are also increasing numbers of annual phlox.
Which Phlox varieties are perennial?
Perennial Phlox varieties include the large-leaf phlox (Phlox amplifolia), the meadow phlox (Phlox maculata), the wandering phlox (Phlox stolonifera), the carpet phlox (Phlox subulata) and the upholstery phlox. Phlox (Phlox douglasii). They are hardy and are characterized by a wide variety of growth forms and flowering times.
Which varieties of phlox are perennial?
One of the perennial species of phlox is the tall-growing Phlox amplifolia; because of its large leaves it has the German name Großblatt-Phlox. Not only is it very decorative but it is also quite robust and largely resistant to the dreaded mildew. It tolerates a longer dry period better than many other varieties and also thrives quite well in partial shade.
The meadow phlox (Phlox maculata) can reach a height of up to one meter. It should be divided every two to three years. This will propagate and rejuvenate the plants. The flowering period of meadow phlox is June to August. Then cut it and it will bloom again.
Phlox can be planted very well together with other flowers. Why not create a high-contrast bed by combining pink Phlox paniculata with yellow coneflower, white gypsophila or blue globe thistle. Or would you rather opt for a tone-on-tone bed? In summer you will be able to look forward to a very special display of flowers.
Phlox as ground cover
Are you looking for a plant that stays on the small side? Even then there is the right Phlox for you. The selection of ground cover plants is not that small. For example, there is the wandering phlox (Phlox stolonifera), which grows to a height of around 30 cm and spreads relatively quickly through root runners. Its flowering period is from April to June.
The carpet phlox (Phlox subulata) and the upholstery phlox (Phlox douglasii) also remain small. Both like sandy soil and tolerate full sun. This makes them ideal for planting in a rock garden.
The most important things in brief:
- Perennials are hardy
- some varieties require sun protection in winter
- large variety of growth forms
- different flowering times
Tips & Tricks
If you want to combine Phlox with other plants, not only the colors have to match but also the needs of the location.
